Career Coaching for Parents

Parents of First Year Students

We recognize that parents play an important role in making a student successful here at CSUN. While we encourage students to continue on the path toward becoming an independent adult, we know that they will need your support to make that successful transition. While federal law forbids us from providing parents with certain types of information, we always want to make sure that we keep the lines of communication open. Because you are very important, we encourage you to come to Parent Orientation. At that time we will provide you with useful information. In the mean time, here is a list of Frequently Asked Questions and a guide to information on the web that parents may find particularly useful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be with my student at any time during the Explore workshops?

No. During your student’s advising and registration time, we respectfully ask parents to allow their students to meet with their peer advisor mentor and to register on their own.

How can I obtain my student’s grades?

The University is prohibited from releasing student records to a third party, without that student’s written consent. FERPA (the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) will be explained in more detail during the Explore workshops and New Student Orientation. Open communication with your student is the best way to know how the student is doing.

Where can I obtain records or proof of full-time enrollment for health insurance purposes and G.P.A. for “good student discount” on auto insurance?

The office of Admissions and Records, verifies all student enrollment and G.P.A. Have your student bring the form found on their website in for signatures.

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What health services are offered at CSUN?

During the Parent Orientation, you will be provided with the services offered and have the opportunity to visit the Klotz Student Health Service office. The services provided are also listed on the above link to Health Services.

How do I change my mailing address? Can mailings be sent to a second address if both parents live at separate addresses?

Your student can change local, permanent, and emergency addresses on the CSUN Web Portal. Unfortunately, only one address can be accommodated in our large database.

Can tuition bills be sent to me rather than my student since I am paying them?

All bills/statements will be emailed only to the student’s CSUN email address. It will be the student’s responsibility to forward the bill to all interested parties. Make sure your student is checking their CSUN account for this statement before each semester begins.
For additional information go to University Cash Services

What does CSUN do to help my student with career planning and decision making? How can I help in that process?

Students have a number of resources available. The Advising Resource Center/EOP assists undeclared/undecided students with academic decision-making and choice of major. The Career Center offers help with career assessment and exploration. Students can attend workshops/seminars, receive advising/counseling in one on one setting, or do individual research with our in-house career counselor and career interns. This office is conveniently located in the University Hall, suite 105. Students should also be encouraged to seek out information/knowledge CSUN faculty have to offer concerning career planning.
Little reminders of the services available is a good way to be involved. Helping your student understand that although this time may be stressful, but is also a once in a lifetime opportunity to explore endless possibilities. Pass on a little “pressure-less” enthusiasm for this process!

Does the University allow a freshman to bring a car on campus?

Parking for students living in the residence halls is extremely limited. Because of the availability of a free shuttle system, students rarely need to bring a car to campus. Information will be sent in June with the student’s room assignment. Parking and Transportation Services has information regarding the shuttle service on their website.

How can I find out about safety at CSUN? Is there an escort service available?

For specific statistics, contact the University Campus Police at (818) 677-2201. You should also visit their website at: http://www-admn.csun.edu/publicsafety/police/. CSUN provides the “Matador Patrol” a night time escort service. For further information or assistance you may contact them at (818) 677-5042 or 5048.

Should students bring a computer to campus with them? Is there assistance for computer challenges?

Students will have 24 hour access to residence hall computer labs, including laser printers. They need only supply their own paper. Most campus buildings also contain computer labs with generous availability. While it is not necessary to bring a computer, many students prefer having one in their room. Information on computer services in the dorms is available at Student Housing and Conference Center. CSUN Help Desk (818) 677-1400 is available to assist with specific computer questions in the campus labs. There will be more information available during Orientation on this topic.

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How many hours (if any) should my student work while they are going to college?

While it is difficult to assess financial need for each individual student, there is research that suggests an ideal of no more than 15 hours per week, for best academic performance. This varies individually. and should be discussed by the family. Prioritizing how a student’s time and energy is spent is a topic all students should discuss with their parents. When will my student be able to purchase textbooks? Textbooks are available for purchase in August in the University Matador Bookstore. Forms will be available during Orientation for student’s who wish to have their books packaged together according to their Fall schedule.

How can I set up a bank account for my CSUN student?

A listing of local banks, along with other financial information will be provided during Orientation by the Financial Aid office. Access their website and do a search on “financial institutions.”

Campus Resources for your Concerns

When a student needs help-sometimes half the battle is just knowing where to go for answers or assistance, so this guide to referrals is organized by issue rather than by office.

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