FAQs

Can families attend NSO? 

Yes. Families and supporters are welcome at select events on Thursday, including Sundaes with Suzanne. Families, friends, and supporters should plan to depart on Thursday evening in order to allow students to focus on their transition to SUNY Potsdam. View the Orientation webpage.

How long should families plan to stay? 

Families are welcome during move-in and designated family event on Thursday. Most Orientation sessions are only for students. Many families choose to depart after evening programs on Thursday or Friday morning. More details will be shared before Orientation. 

Where should we park during NSO? 

Parking information will be provided before move-in day.SUNY Potsdam staff and student leaders will be available to help direct you on arrival. 

What support is available for my student during NSO? 

Orientation Leaders (OLs) are trained student mentors who guide new students throughout Orientation. Professional staff are also available to assist students with questions or concerns. Please encourage your student to advocate for themselves, ask questions, and take advantage of the resources available to them during NSO. 

Can families and friends stay on campus during NSO? 

UNY Potsdam does not provide overnight accommodations for families. Local hotels and lodging options are available in the Potsdam area. Check out the Welcome to the North Country section for more information. 

How can I help my student prepare for NSO? 

Encourage your student to:

• Check their Potsdam email regularly
• Complete their New Student Checklist
• Ask questions if they are unsure 

We also encourage you to help your student start to establish their independence. For example, have them start cooking a few meals each week, wash their own laundry and be responsible for their own routine.

Many students report that establishing independence is one of the most challenging pieces of their transition to college, and small steps while still living at home can be extremely helpful. 

What if my student feels nervous or overwhelmed? 

This is very common. Orientation Leaders and staff are here to support students. Orientation is designed to help students feel comfortable and confident, and our staff and faculty are dedicated to helping your student succeed. Encourage your student to ask for help when they need it, and let them know that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. 

Will we receive updates during NSO? 

Important information will be shared directly with students. Families are encouraged to stay connected with their student throughout the weekend, but likely will not receive updates directly from the College.

As students begin college, they also begin taking greater ownership of their education and personal information. Federal privacy laws and institutional policies help protect student information while also encouraging student independence and self advocacy.

Why can’t the college always share information with me about my student? 

Once students enroll in college, they are protected by federal privacy laws that limit what colleges can share about their education records. This is an important part of supporting student independence, self-advocacy, and personal responsibility. While we understand that supporters often want information in order to help, there are times when the college may need to speak directly with the student or encourage the student to take the next step themselves. 

What is FERPA? 

FERPA stands for the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. FERPA generally limits what colleges can share with parents, families, and supporters without the student’s consent. This may include information related to grades, class schedules, academic standing, and certain other student records. View the FERPA webpage for additional information.

Can my student give me permission to access certain information? 

In some cases, yes. Students may be able to authorize access to certain information through campus processes or student account permissions. Because the type of access can vary depending on the information being requested, students should review the appropriate campus office’s procedures for granting access or consent. You can refer to the Family Access to Student Financial Information webpage to find out how to be set up as an authorized payer, or to have guest access to BearPaws.

Who should I contact if I’m worried about my student? 

If you are concerned about your student’s well-being, safety, or ability to succeed, it is okay to reach out. Depending on the situation, the best starting point may be the Student Affairs Office, Counseling Center, Residence Life or another relevant campus office. If you are not sure where to begin, starting with the Student Affairs Office is often a good option. 

What if my student is not responding to me? 

It can be stressful when communication changes, especially during periods of transition or stress. Sometimes students become busy, distracted, overwhelmed or less consistent in communication as they adjust to college life and greater independence. If you are concerned, try reaching out calmly and clearly, and if you believe there may be a more serious concern, contact the appropriate campus office for guidance.

Academic adjustment is a normal part of the college experience. Students may need time, support and encouragement as they learn how to navigate new expectations, routines, and responsibilities.

What should I do if my student is struggling academically?

If your student is struggling academically, the most helpful first step is often to encourage them to reach out early rather than waiting for things to get worse. Students may benefit from speaking with their professors, connecting with Academic Advising, visiting the Lougheed Learning Commons or exploring other academic resources. A supportive conversation can go a long way, especially when it focuses on problem-solving rather than panic. 

How can I encourage my student to ask for help? 

One of the best ways to encourage help-seeking is to normalize it. You might remind your student that asking questions, using support services, and reaching out for guidance are all common parts of the college experience. It can also help to ask open ended questions like, “What do you think your next step could be?” or “Who on campus might be able to help with that?”

What if my student is thinking about changing majors? 

It is very common for students to reconsider or change their academic path during college. Interests, goals, strengths and experiences often evolve over time. If your student is thinking about changing majors, encourage them to connect with Academic Advising so they can explore options, understand requirements, and make an informed decision. 

How do students connect with academic advising? 

Students typically connect with advising through their assigned academic advisor or the appropriate academic advising office on campus. Advising can help students with course planning, academic decisions, degree progress and navigating questions about majors or next steps. Encouraging students to ask questions early can help them feel more confident and informed. 

What if my student seems overwhelmed by coursework? 

Feeling overwhelmed academically can happen at any point in the semester, especially during periods of transition, midterms or finals. If your student seems overwhelmed, it may help to encourage them to break challenges into smaller steps and connect with campus support. Talking with faculty, advisors or academic support services can help students regain a sense of direction and control. 

How can I support my student without taking over? 

One of the most meaningful ways to support a student is to help them build confidence in their own ability to navigate challenges. That might mean listening first, asking thoughtful questions and encouraging them to reach out to the appropriate campus resource themselves. Support, especially in college, does not mean solving the problem for your student, but rather it means helping students feel capable of taking the next step.

Students may face emotional, physical, social, or personal challenges at different points in their college journey. SUNY Potsdam offers a range of resources to help students navigate these experiences and stay connected to support.

What if I’m worried about my student’s mental health? 

If you are concerned about your student’s mental health, trust your instincts and take the concern seriously. Encourage your student to connect with the Counseling Center or another appropriate campus resource, and remind them that seeking support is a healthy and important step. If you believe there is an urgent or immediate safety concern, contact emergency services or the appropriate campus office right away. 

How can my student access counseling or health services? 

Students can access support through the Counseling Center and Student Health Services, both of which are designed to support student well-being. Students can typically contact these offices directly to learn more about appointments, services and next steps. Encouraging students to reach out early can make it easier to address concerns before they become more difficult to manage. 

What should I do if my student seems overwhelmed, isolated or distressed? 

If your student seems overwhelmed, withdrawn, or significantly distressed, it may be helpful to check in calmly and ask open ended, supportive questions. Encourage them to talk with a trusted campus professional, such as someone in Counseling Services, the Student Affairs Office, Residence Life or another support office. If the concern feels more serious or urgent, do not hesitate to reach out for guidance.

In addition to the above offices, the Bear CARE Program is SUNY Potsdam's Case Management program. CARE stands for Consultation, Advocacy, Referral and Education. The Bear CARE Program offers confidential comprehensive support to students who need assistance with difficult or unexpected life events during their time in college. View the Bear CARE website.

How do I report a concern about a student? 

If you are concerned about a student’s well-being, safety, or overall functioning, you may be able to report that concern through the college’s student support or care reporting process. This allows the appropriate campus staff to review the concern and determine how best to follow up. If you are unsure where to begin, the Student Affairs Office is often a good starting point. 

What resources exist for students experiencing food insecurity or other personal challenges? 

SUNY Potsdam offers a range of support resources for students who may be experiencing food insecurity, financial stress or other personal challenges. These may include campus food and nutrition resources, emergency support options, student support offices and staff who can help connect students to assistance. Students do not need to navigate these concerns alone. Please contact the Counseling Center or the Student Affairs office for more information about the available resources. 

What if my student is having difficulty adjusting to college life? 

Adjustment challenges are common, especially during the first semester or after major transitions. Students may need time to build routines, find community, manage independence and feel settled. Supporters can help by offering reassurance, normalizing the adjustment process and encouraging students to stay engaged and use campus support resources as needed.

Belonging and connection are important parts of the student experience. Students often benefit from finding community, getting involved and connecting with people and places that help them feel at home at Potsdam.

How can students get involved on campus? 

Students can get involved through clubs and organizations, campus events, leadership opportunities, recreation, student employment, performances, athletics, service opportunities and more. Getting involved can help students build friendships, develop confidence and feel more connected to campus. Students are encouraged to explore opportunities and try a few different things as they find their place. 

What if my student is having a hard time making friends? 

Many students worry about finding connection, especially during the first year or after a major transition. Friendships often take time and may not happen all at once. Encouraging your student to stay involved, attend events, keep showing up and remain open to new experiences can make a real difference over time. 

Where can students find clubs, organizations and activities? 

Students can typically learn about clubs, organizations and events through Campus Life, Get Involved (our engagement platform), residence hall programming, and campus communications. These opportunities can help students find community, explore interests, and connect with others. Students are encouraged to ask questions and try opportunities that feel interesting or new.

What if my student is struggling with their roommate or residence hall experience? 

Roommate or residence hall concerns are not uncommon, especially as students learn to live with others and navigate shared space. Encourage your student to communicate directly and respectfully, and to reach out to Residence Life staff if additional support is needed. Residence Life can often help students talk through concerns, identify next steps, and work toward resolution. 

Are there programs that help students feel connected during the first year? 

Yes. SUNY Potsdam offers a variety of programs and experiences designed to help students feel connected, supported, and engaged during the transition to college. These may include orientation, first-year experience programming, residence hall support, involvement opportunities and other campus initiatives that help students build community and confidence. 

What support exists for students from different backgrounds and identities?

SUNY Potsdam is home to a variety of programs, offices and communities that support students from different backgrounds, lived experiences, and identities. These resources can help students find belonging, build community, access support and engage in meaningful dialogue and learning. Students are encouraged to explore spaces and opportunities that help them feel seen, valued and connected.

College life includes plenty of practical details, too. This section can help you find information related to everyday logistics, planning and campus operations.

Where can I find information about billing and payment? 

Information about billing, payment deadlines, account balances and related processes can be found on the One Stop webpage. Students are encouraged to review their account information regularly and follow up with the appropriate office if they have questions. Supporters should work with their student to understand what information can be shared and how access is managed. 

How does financial aid work? 

Financial aid can include grants, scholarships, loans, work-study and other forms of assistance that help students pay for college. Because financial aid can vary based on each student’s situation, students should connect directly with the Financial Aid Office for questions about eligibility, requirements, timelines and next steps. Encouraging students to review deadlines carefully is especially important. 

Where can I find the academic calendar? 

The academic calendar is one of the best places to find important dates related to the semester, including the start and end of classes, breaks, registration periods and other key deadlines. Families, friends, and supporters may find it helpful to review the calendar alongside their student when planning visits, travel or time away from campus.

What are move-in and move-out like? 

Move-in and move-out are often exciting, busy, and emotional times for students and supporters alike. SUNY Potsdam will typically share information in advance about timelines, expectations, check-in or checkout processes, and what students should know before arriving or leaving campus. Students and supporters are encouraged to review all communications carefully and plan ahead when possible. 

Where can visitors park when coming to campus? 

Visitor parking information is typically available on the Parking Regulation webpage. If you are visiting campus, especially during major events or busy times of year, it is a good idea to review parking information in advance so you know where to go and what to expect. 

How do students receive mail and packages? 

The mailroom supports over 4000 mailboxes for qualified students and student organizations. Throughout the year, students will have access to their mailbox during the operational hours of the Student Union. Prior to your entry semester, the Student Mailroom will assign all qualified students a campus mailbox. When students arrive on campus, they should visit the Student Mailroom to sign out their key and receive their mailing address, which can then be shared with family, friends, and any company, group or agency from whom they anticipate receiving mail. 

What if my student needs help with housing, meals or other practical needs? 

Students who need help navigating housing, meal access or other day-to-day needs are encouraged to connect with the appropriate campus offices, such as Residence Life or other relevant departments. If the need is connected to a broader challenge, the Student Affairs Office may also help connect students to support. Refer to the campus directory to search for specific office/department contact information.

There are many ways to stay connected to SUNY Potsdam while also giving students space to grow, explore and build independence.

How can I stay informed about campus news and important dates? 

Supporters can stay informed by checking the SUNY Potsdam website regularly, reviewing important campus communications, following official campus social media accounts and using resources like the academic calendar and Family & Friends webpage. Staying connected can help supporters feel informed while still allowing students space to navigate their own experience. 

Is there an email list or newsletter for families, friends and supporters? 

Yes. Visit the "Contact Us" page on the Family and Friends portal to sign up! 

How can I learn more about Family & Friends Weekend? 

Information about Family & Friends weekend, including dates, schedules, registration details and planning information, can be found on the Family & Friends Weekend webpage. This annual event is a great opportunity to visit campus, connect with the student experience and enjoy time together in the Potsdam community. 

Are there opportunities to visit campus during the year? 

Yes. Families, friends, and supporters are welcome to visit campus throughout the year, whether for formal events like Family & Friends Weekend, performances, athletic events or personal visits. Reviewing the academic calendar and campus events schedule can help you plan ahead.

How can I support my student while also encouraging independence? 

One of the most helpful ways to support a college student is to stay present without taking over. That might mean listening, asking thoughtful questions, encouraging them to use campus resources and allowing them space to make decisions and learn from experience. Students often grow most when they feel supported and trusted.