Wednesday 15 September 2010

When the University Bubble Bursts

My thanks to Helen Turner and the Western Mail for publishing my essay on ‘When the University Bubble Bursts’ which can be found by clicking here

The essay is about how Graduates and their Parents are facing an unsettled time. Both are suffering from the end of university life and the return to the family nest. The concern is the ‘stop gap’ of moving home may be lengthening with associated issues.

Below you can find some top tips for families adjusting.

I’ve also written a guide which offers some simple advice for students and parents dealing with this transition of leaving university and the move back home. The guide can be found on http://www.cardiffdigs.co.uk/ and a condensed top tips guide.
Top tips:

Communicate expectations and concerns openly, verbally.

Discuss financial contributions.

Agree house rules; communal cleaning, room cleanliness, having guests to stay and what communication is expected when out of the house.

Respect privacy

Be open about difficulties and future aspirations

Graduates should ask not assume that parents are able to take them back. An open discussion about options is a positive start and face to face dialogue throughout is essential.

Find out how long universities will offer career advice and support after graduation. These services are often open to graduates and offer essential ongoing support.

Discover local area/authority support services

For additional support and advice contact, Parentline: 0808 800 2222 or The Samaritans: 08457 90 90 90

I would welcome your experiences or methods that have helped deal with this unsettled time: kmccann@cardiff.gov.uk

Kieran McCann, Student Liaison Officer, working in partnership with Cardiff, UWIC and Glamorgan University and Cardiff Council and founder of http://www.cardiffdigs.co.uk/ a one stop website for all student housing and living needs.

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