Risa Nye, San Francisco Chronicle
Friday, August 1, 2008

I am a short-term crisis counselor. For more than 15 years, I've guided high school seniors through applications, personal statements, deadlines and all the pressure that goes along with the process. As a college counselor in both public and private schools, I have worked with many kids, held a lot of hands and pulled out the tissue box on several occ… Continue

Life can be extremely tough for moms, especially nowadays. Not only are they expected to do housework and take care of the children, but they must also work full-time jobs. And sometimes, moms have to do this all by themselves, making motherhood even tougher. Fortunately, there is hope out there. It can be found through Scholarships 4 Moms "Succeed in Education" award.

The Scholarships 4 Moms "Succeed in Education" Award is an annual sw… Continue

Students recommend that new students wait a couple months before going home for the first time, citing Thanksgiving to be a good goal. Being here forces you to connect with the university community.

• You're On Your Own (But I'm Here if You Need Me): Mentoring Your Child During the College Years by Marjorie Savage

• Don't Tell Me What to Do, Just Send Money: The Essential Parenting Guide to the College Years by Helen E. Johnson and Christine Schelhas-Miller

• Letting Go: A Parents' Guide to Understanding the College Years, Fourth Edition by Karen Levin Coburn and Madge Lawrence Treeger

• What to Expect When Your Child Leaves for College: A Complete Guide for Paren… Continue

Homesickness and leaving the family behind are challenges during the first year. Students indicate that it helps if family members keep in close contact by phone, e-mail, sending care packages and letters. Other items that make them smile are quarters for the laundry, coupons, cookies and things that remind them of home. Another area of adjustment is having a roommate and all aspects of sharing the space--especially if student is accustomed to having his/her own room. The academic… Continue