How to find, download, fill out, and print out the FAFSA form for financial aid by going to this site:. http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/index.htm  – if you have questions concerning this form please call the Financial Aid Office on either campus.

Find out what other options are available besides financial aid – such as the college scholarships – the list of those scholarships, along with the application and due date is listed on the college website:  http://www.rappahannock.edu  and also look at the college tuition payment plan explained on the website: 

To help meet your educational expenses, Rappahannock Community College is pleased to provide Nelnet tuition payment plan. For a non-refundable fee, Nelnet allows you to pay your tuition in monthly payments.  To find out more about this plan, contact the College Business Office on either campus.

Also, look into what other avenues are available and help your student decide on what works best for them.  Don’t assume they will handle it themselves because in the end, when tuition is due, they will need your help. 

Know the student’s class schedule, not to be nosey, but for a better understanding of where your “child” is headed and to know where and when to find them.  There is no delivery system available in the college for messages to be handled unless the situation is a family emergency.  Classroom interruption for other situations is not permitted.   Your “child” is your best resource for information

It is important to keep the lines of communication open for your student.  Don’t be afraid of asking them questions about their classes and decisions they have made. It lets them know you care and are there if they need you.

When your student is in a dilemma with a problem and they are not asking you to solve it, just listen and encourage them to consider their options and support their decision.  Since they’re sharing with you, avoid statements such as “how did this happen, how could you . . .?”  Listen so you can guide them and help lead them to a solution.

Be confident that your student is ready for college and that you did a good job preparing them.  Don’t expect them to do things the way you did or the way you would. 

Growth requires making mistakes.  Letting your “child” make mistakes may be difficult but can develop them in the long run.  A big part of college is making choices.

It is important to be patient, Patient, PATIENT.

Supportive words work wonders: “You’ll do fine; you’re well prepared for that exam.” Or “I’m so proud of you for taking on the challenge.”

Lastly….if you have experienced the college atmosphere – remember those days and times.  What memories do you remember most?