Information for parents, carers and supporters
Having your loved one go to university is not just a big event for them but for you too. Here’s everything you need to know about supporting them through Kingston University.
Helping to choose the right university
Getting to know Kingston University
Deciding which university to go to is one of the biggest decisions a student will face. Your loved one’s school or college will offer advice, but you can also help in the decision-making process.
So you can get to know Kingston for yourself, we welcome all parents, carers and supporters to attend one of our Open Days. You'll have the opportunity to find out more about specific courses of interest, our campuses, facilities and accommodation. You'll also be able to talk to some of our academics and the support staff who will be guiding your loved one through their higher education journey.
Supporting students
When your loved one leaves home for the first time to attend Kingston University, it can be an upheaval for everyone involved.
Naturally, you’ll want to support young students to the best of your ability. Here are some top tips for supporting your loved one during their first year at University:
If new students are feeling homesick
Let them know you sympathise, but encourage them to stick it out. Remind them the clubs and societies run by the Kingston Students' Union are a great way to meet people and make new friends.
In case they get ill
Make sure your son, daughter, or loved one registers with a doctor when they first arrive which will make things easier if they do feel ill. There are also some vaccines you may want to arrange to update before university starts.
If they’re disappointed with their term grades
Our site-based Academic Skills Centres can provide them with support and advice.
If they’re struggling with the cold weather
Much of the academic year occurs when the days are short and cold, which can contribute to low mood in some students. Remind them that the Fitness Centre includes lots of indoor dance and aerobics classes, which aren't weather dependent.
If they have financial concerns
There is plenty of help and advice on fees and funding available, including money management talks and workshops.
If they need help finding a job or securing accommodation
The careers service is available if your son or daughter needs help finding a job. We also offer accommodation support to advise with house-hunting.
Where possible, our courses are structured to help your loved one develop their work-based key skills, such as time management, team working, presentation and people-based skills.
We also have a specialist careers team. This support team works with academics, support staff and industry to ensure that students are prepared. We want graduates to step into the marketplace with confidence when they graduate.
Our careers team can provide:
- Individual guidance
- Advice and workshops on CV preparation
- Application forms
- Interview techniques
- Psychometric tests
In addition, we run interactive events throughout the year. We aim to give students the opportunity to hear from, and network with, employers in an informal setting.
Need some more information?
To find out more about how you can support your loved one through University, contact us.
