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Support your Osprey throughout college

• First Year
  It's YEAR ONE! The first year of a student's college career is important, but it is also a time for exploration and change. This is a time for your student to learn and grow, and your student will ask you for advice and help. Over the next few years, use these tips to help your student:

  • Make a communication plan. You are probably used to seeing your student at least once a day. Now you'll have to rely on other ways to stay in touch. Make a communication plan with your student!
  • Visit campus. Plan a visit with your student. There are many things to do at ÀÏ°ÄÃÅ×ÊÁÏ and in Jacksonville.
  • Get involved! We have many organizations on campus for students. 
  • Create a plan. Encourage your student to plan ahead. College academics are different than high school, and knowing due dates and creating a study plan can help students succeed.
• Second Year

  Welcome to YEAR TWO at ÀÏ°ÄÃÅ×ÊÁÏ! Your student has made it to the sophomore status. Let's ensure continued support and not a sophomore slump.

  • Declare a major. If your student has not declared a major yet, this year is important for exploring options. Students can meet with academic advisors and check out Career Services.
  • Plan to study abroad. Is your student interested in studying abroad? Students can meet with the Study Abroad office to see what options are available for learning in another country. 
  • Is your student ready for a job? There are many jobs on campus that can help a student bring in some funds. Take a look at ÀÏ°ÄÃÅ×ÊÁÏ Jobs.
• Third Year

  It's YEAR THREE! Your student is now considered an upperclassman. Many might have begun their major courses while others may still be working on their prerequisites and deciding what path to choose. 
  
  Tips to get your student through year three:

  • Students may start to doubt their majors or paths. We recommend talking to Career Services. Meeting with Career Services is a great first step in determining post-grad goals, which can help inform a field of study.
  • Your student may need or want to start looking at internships for this year or next. Encourage your student to start making connections now.
• Final Year

  It's here! The FINAL YEAR of your student's time at ÀÏ°ÄÃÅ×ÊÁÏ. Congratulations on making it this far! Now it's time to support your student in the transition from a student into a professional member of society. It's the final year but students are not quite done yet ...

  • Finish strong! Remind your student that there is still work to get done. Encourage your student to check important deadlines, such as applying for graduation, completing financial aid requirements and ordering a cap and gown for the graduation ceremony.
  • Be prepared. Time for students to visit Career Services again to brush up on interview tips, resumes and more.
  • Remind your student to have fun and celebrate!