09/09/2026
Welcome to the start of a new academic year! Whether your student is joining us on the Hill for the very first time or returning to campus for another year, we are thrilled to welcome your family into the Gustavus community.
As the new school year starts, it's important to remember that the transition into a new college year brings both excitement and adjustment. To help you support your student during this time, here is an overview of what to expect during the first six weeks of the semester:
• Weeks 1–2: Students are settling into campus routines, attending Welcome Week events, reflecting on orientation events, navigating classes, and finding their rhythm on campus.
• Weeks 3–4: Classes pick up momentum, and students begin forming campus connections, joining clubs, and exploring extracurricular involvement.
• Weeks 5–6: Midterm preparations begin, and students often experience their first real academic challenge as they solidify their study habits and support systems.
Tips for Supporting Your Student:
• Encourage them to reach out to campus resources, including academic advising, counseling services, and peer support networks.
• Stay connected, but allow them space to navigate challenges independently.
• Remind them that feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety during the first few weeks is completely normal.
We know that all students experience some ups and downs (whether they are new to Gustavus or they feel like they are savvy veterans!), and we are here to guide them through those moments by providing care, support, and resources. We have some great resources designed specifically for you - the parents and families of Gusties. Check out our Parents & Family webpage for helpful information.
There are several offices that provide coordinated support to Gusties as they develop and grow as young adults. You can find information about all of these helpful offices on the Gustavus website:
Dean of Students office
Academic Support Center
Counseling Center
Health Service
Campus Activities Office
Housing & Residential Life
Office of the Chaplains
For the families of first-year students in particular: Here is a helpful resource for students from our Counseling Center about managing their adjustment to college. I encourage you to read it and talk to your Gustie about these topics and remind them of the many resources on campus that are available to help when needed.
We are so glad to partner with you in supporting your student’s growth, learning, and success this year. Please feel free to reach out to our office if you have any questions along the way. You can reach us at [email protected] or 507-933-7526.
Go Gusties!
