The New Student Orientation experience is set up to help you and your student connect with the MSU community to help with your student’s transition to MSU. Below is a curated series of pre-recorded videos and helpful resource links for the upcoming semester to help share out important information with students, families, and supporters. Feel free to view at your leisure. Additionally, we will be highlighting these resources in our newsletter and other communications.
Updated video content will be coming soon! For the most updated information included in the videos, please contact the specific department directly or reach out to the NSO Office at nso@msu.edu or 517-355-8490.
Questions about how students enroll in classes? Review this resource.
Webinar Series
This section features a playlist of pre-recorded webinars covering key topics for families and supporters of incoming students. You can also tune into past episodes of NSO's Spartan Orientation Station Podcast to more insight on resources available to you and your student.
Transitional Tips
The transition to college is a significant change for both families and supporters of incoming students. These tips will help you navigate this journey, offering guidance on fostering independence, encouraging problem-solving, and supporting your student while they adjust to their new environment.
Tip #1: Communication
Make sure to talk with your student about communication expectations and understandings. Before your student begins classes, make sure to ask: how often (daily, weekly, etc.) you want to check-in, what method you will use (text, phone, video call, etc.), and are there any other communication expectations you want to discuss (visits, holidays, etc.)? Asking these questions in an open-ended manner will allow for you and your student to share and build a communication plan together.
Tip #2: Set expectations
As you continue to get ready for your student’s first year at MSU, make sure to set expectations early. Discuss what information you want your student to share with you and how frequently. Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), your student must give permission for other individuals to view educational records. FERPA is expansive but can be thought of in three categories: financial records (e.g., bills, tuition, fees), academic records (e.g., courses, grades, class standing), and student life (e.g., conduct, disciplinary actions). Beyond records, discuss other expectations such as employment (do you want your student to have a job during the school year) and payment (who is paying for their education; are there conditions or stipulations). Finally, review the Student Code of Conduct to understand expectations from the university.
Tip #3: Be patient and don’t rush in
When your student encounters a problem, don’t fix the issue yourself. Listen, give suggestions, and allow your student space to make decisions. This exchange will aid your student in taking responsibility and learning how to navigate issues.
Tip #4: Encourage independence and problem-solving
As your student navigates college life, encourage them to seek out resources on campus rather than relying on you to solve every issue. Whether it’s visiting an advisor, talking to a professor, or utilizing student services, guiding them toward problem-solving on their own fosters confidence and resilience.
Tip #5: Help them build a support system
Encourage your student to connect with peers, professors, and campus resources. Whether through study groups, student organizations, or office hours, building a strong support network will help them navigate challenges and feel more at home in their new environment.
Virtual Resources
We have gathered various information and resources from campus partners. Click the title of the topic listed below to view more specific information about the topic. There may be additional links included in the brief description underneath each title.
As part of the New Student Orientation experience, your student will receive a document in their D2L course called the Family and Supporter Resource Guide. This guide is designed to help them understand the important role families and supporters play as they begin college. It also encourages them to reflect on how their relationships may shift as they gain more independence. We invite you to ask your student about the guide and use it as a starting point for conversations about how you can stay connected and supportive during this exciting transition.