Gitlin and Marks said the two biggest tasks college students face are structuring their time and creating a social network. The first semester, the average student will have some big problem. Although they may not take your advice, you can talk to your children about the importance of establishing a daily routine so they can keep themselves on track. You can also help them set up a comfortable atmosphere in their new living quarters and suggest ways they could find a mentor. Creating new friendship circles is also important.
Some students keep up with old friends, often through e-mail.
Caryl Donnellan said her daughter Lucy kept up with 20 to 30 old classmates this way. Most people drop out, not because of academics, but because they feel isolated and lonely. Then all of a sudden you see them utilizing these skills. That's a big payback. Sharon Rauch is a lifestyles reporter for the Tallahassee Democrat. .