Advice from parents to Sun Devils

3 minutes

At ASU Family's welcome events this fall, parents and guardians wrote down some advice for their incoming Sun Devils. We picked 10 top pieces of wisdom that ASU students need to know. 

Four family members pose at an ASU Family welcome event

Sun Devils enjoyed the chance to gather at an ASU Family reception during Welcome Week in August 2019.

1.  “Don’t be afraid to ask for help! We all need it at some point.”

If you’re a first-year student, you’re probably feeling like a lot is changing in your life. And every year of college can present new and exciting chapters that can seem a little daunting. 

There are an abundance of resources at ASU to help you adjust, so take a deep breath! Check out the First-Year Success Center or any of the Academic Success Centers around campus. 

2. “Be kind. Watch out for each other.”

We’re all Sun Devils, which means we’re all in this together! Download the LiveSafe App and have safety resources always with you in your pocket. If you ever feel unsafe, use the app to alert emergency contacts, call the police or find a safe way to get back to your residence hall or car. 

3. “Lock your bike twice.”

If you ride a bike on campus, double check that it’s locked before you go into class. And remember that you can take advantage of the bike registration, valet and co-op services

4. “Get out and meet as many people as you can!”

Joining student clubs, Devils on Mill or the Inferno are all great ways to make new friends and stay connected during your time at the university.

5. “Stay in school! Even when you think you can’t.”

At times, college can feel frustrating, stressful and even overwhelming, but it will never be so hard that you can’t persevere with a little determination and the right resources.

The Dean of Students advocacy resources are there to help if something is hindering your academic goals, and you can always turn to academic advising if you need someone to point you in the right direction. 

6. “Go to the counseling center if you feel sad or anxious.”

Your mental health should be a priority in your life, and ASU’s Counseling Services are there for you if you need to talk to anyone. 

7. “Live and work for yourself and your community!”

In college, it’s important to prioritize not only your personal success but also the impact you can make on the community. If you’re interested in making a difference, check out Changemaker Central’s service opportunities.

8. “Stay true to who you are while looking out for each other. Find a balance between studying and having fun.”

The SDFC has group fitness classes you can go to every day, and ASU’s intramurals and sport clubs are a great way to stay connected to or cultivate interests, blow off steam and have fun. 

9. “Your health is what’s important!”

With everything going on in your life, make sure you’re taking time to stay well. Getting your flu shot and making an appointment at ASU Health Services  and resting at home when you feel sick are good ways to be a well Devil. 

10. “Study. Be safe. Have fun. Call your family!”

Don’t forget to call the people you love while you’re in college. ASU Family is there to support you and your family on campus as you all make the most of being Sun Devils. And remember, a great time to connect is during Family Weekend, Nov. 8–10, 2019. Register now to take part in all the Sun Devil spirit and family activities.

 

Austin Davis, Sun Devil Storyteller