Welcome Families and Supporters
Common Concerns and What You Can Do
Highschool To College Adjustment
Students go through a significant adjustment process when entering college. Changes go from academic demands to establishing interpersonal relationship, finding campus resources and community, taking care of their wellbeing, and becoming independent. Be open to supporting your first-gen in their many growth processes.
Financial Concerns
Financial responsibilities shift when entering college. Always remember that Salem State provides many resources to support both you and the student in this. Check out our resource links below.
Time Management
Students face a more independent path to their studies. Time management is critical and difficult to master. Patience, determination, and most of all asking for help from coaches in the first year are ways to succeed.
What You Can Do to Support your Student
Educate Yourself And Get Involved (within Reason)
Without overstepping on your student’s independence, familiarize yourself with college processes, stay informed about key events such as Accepted Students Day,Viking Family & Supporter Orientation, or visiting the campus and resources available to them and for you.
Join The Parent Council! This is a great way to stay involved and connected with your student during their college experience. Email: parent@salemstate.edu for more information.
Encourage honesty, judgement free conversations. Let your student share their experiences, challenges and success without pressure.
Need some guidance? Here are some conversation starters to get you started
There is no shame in asking for help and using Salem State student support resources: they have been created for a reason!
Create space and encourage your student to seek help. Sometimes students simply need to be heard in times of uncertainty.
College is a time of personal growth and self-discovery. Create space and encourage your student to explore, to make their own decisions while reminding them you are there for guidance and support.
Other Common Concerns
Imposter Syndrome
Imposter Syndrome is the thought or idea that you have only succeeded due to luck and not by talent or qualifications. Many first-gen experience this: ask for support, realize that you are not alone, and know that you deserve to be here!
Not Finding Community
Students often struggle to find their community. As parent and supporter, be ready to listen, and support through the years: the community that feels right at the start may be different from the one needed at the end of the college experience!
Commuting
Commuters face unique challenges in connecting to fellow students, study time and space, finances. We recognize this and provide dedicated resources. Also remember that SSU is recognized for its role in the local community with the prestigious Carnegie Community Engagement Classification. Participate and be an agent of change!
Salem State Support Resources: Official Guide (English, Spanish, Portuguese)
Parent / Families Resource Page
Parent / Families Facebook group
Multilingual Resources
Student Success and the First Year Experience
The first year experience office (FYE) provides access to the resources and support students need to successfully navigate the transition from high school to university life.
Tutoring & Learning Support
Free academic support is available through services like the Writing Center, Math Learning Lab, and Peer Tutoring, helping students build confidence in their coursework. [links]Academic Advising
Academic Advisors work closely with students to help them select courses, stay on track for graduation, and navigate academic challenges.
The Student Navigation Center is the hub for Salem State financial aid, billing, registration and ClipperCard information.
The Salem State University Emergency Funding supports unexpected students’ personal financial emergencies. Due to the limited nature of our funding, all students must demonstrate an immediate financial need to be considered for a grant.
Salem State Grants and Scholarships
Institutional grants and scholarships that are offered to help offset the cost of getting a degree.
Counseling and Health Services
A combined medical and behavioral health office on campus.
Contact Us
Contact Us
352 Lafayette St.
Salem, MA 01970