First Year Families

Adjusting to College

The first year of college can be tough for both parents and students. Help your student make the most out of their first year by understanding the different resources available at Vanderbilt.

First Year Families Communications Prepare for Arrival Adjusting to College
Community

Getting Involved

Finding community on campus is crucial to student success. Students can utilize Anchor Link to explore events happening on campus and co-curricular organizations and clubs. The Commons host several events for first-year students during the school year as well. Encourage your student to get out and have fun! 

Academics

Support Resources

There are several ways students can stay on top of their classes and get support where needed.

  • Practice time management! The flexible schedule of college life can be hard to adapt to!
  • Make use of the great academic enhancement services on campus (tutoring, writing studio, study skills)
  • Take a seminar course to start thinking about your Immersion Vanderbilt project
  • Academics and Course Selection: Focus on exploring interests, values, and skills and completing AXEL (general education) requirements
Career

Life After Vanderbilt

The Career Center is a great resource for students as they begin searching for internships and job opportunities. During their first year, students can:

  • Meet the Career Center coaches during walk-in hours at The Ingram Commons to learn more about their services
  • Create a resume and have a coach review it
Support

Parent to Parent

There are several ways for parents to find community and support with other Vanderbilt families: