Tips for your Student | Parents | Student Affairs | University of Nebraska at Kearney

Friendly and welcoming
At UNK, students support each other. We make each other feel accepted and included. Often, people know your name and smile and wave as you walk by. That’s the UNK difference.
Life as a Loper
What does it mean to be a Loper? It's different. Lopers are involved and connected, and actively taking part in their learning.
Get involved in what matters
Be proactive. There are more than 150 active student organizations at UNK. Students who are more involved on campus report improved communication and leadership skills.

Tips to Help Your Student Succeed at UNK

Money
Independence
Homework
Basic Skills

Managing Money

Managing money is a task that can sometimes be a difficult task for some students, especially if they have limited experience. Before a student comes to college they should know how to balance a checkbook, maintain their own bank account and know how to prioritize purchases. Sometimes the fun purchases are not the appropriate purchase. Be sure to talk with your student about managing their money before they come to UNK and it doesn’t hurt to keep an open dialogue going about financial matters.

For questions related to financial aid please visit UNK’s financial aid website.

Helping Your Student Achieve Independence

Transitioning to a University can be a big change for a student and the student’s parent. Encourage your student to take responsibility for their education and the decisions they make as an adult. At UNK there are countless people here to help your student but ultimately it is up to your student to make the right decisions in college and in life. It’s important to be a resource for your student but not to do everything for them. Encourage your student to take advantage of all the resources that are available at UNK and to be an active student. Doing these things will help your student down the path to independence.

Homework & Deadlines

A big change for a number of new college students relates to homework and deadlines. Managing and keeping on top of homework and deadlines can be challenge. In a University setting there are fewer reminders and frequently less forgiveness for being late on an assignment. Encourage your student to stay organized during college and do their best to not wait until the last minute to complete an assignment.

Help getting organized is available at UNK through the Learning Commons.

Basic Life & Survival Skills

Moving to campus and away from home can be a big challenge for a new student. Encourage your student to stay on campus over the weekends and to become involved on campus, through activities and student groups. The more involved a student is the more they will feel connected to UNK.

At UNK, we recognize that transition is tough and learning basic life skills (i.e. Laundry, Cooking, etc.) can be a challenge for a new student. Fortunately, we have students and staff members available to help anytime day or night. Every student that lives on campus will have a Residence Hall staff available to assist any time day or night.