Message to Parents

Congratulations! You're almost there! You and your child have invested a considerable amount of time, energy and money in a quality education. You may be anticipating your child's graduation day with mixed emotions: you are proud of what your child has accomplished so far, but probably melancholic about your "baby" moving on to his or her next step and concerned about them being able to provide for themselves.

This is also a nervous time for your soon-to-be graduate. He or she has the same questions that you do. Can I get a job? Can I be successful? Can I be independent?

Many parents want to be involved and supportive of their child's career without being "too" involved. There is a wonderful resource for parents called The Parent's Crash Course in Career Planning by Marcia B. Harris and Sharon L. Jones. Both authors have many years of experience in career counseling and currently are Director and Associate Director of University Career Services at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

This book provides some tips on ways you can help support your child as they go through their job search such as:

• Have realistic expectations
• Show an interest in your child's job search
• Help keep motivation up
• Set guidelines and limits for financial support

Most importantly, continue to show your child the encouragement and support that you've provided over past years. We know that achieving one's goals does not always come easily or without substantial effort and planning. Good Luck!!!