Parents | Families
In just half a century, the University of Waterloo, located at the heart of Canada's Technology Triangle, has become one of Canada's leading comprehensive universities with 28,000 full- and part-time students in undergraduate and graduate programs.
Waterloo, as home to the world's largest post-secondary co-operative education program, embraces its connections to the world and encourages enterprising partnerships in learning, research and discovery.
In the next decade, the university is committed to building a better future for Canada and the world by championing innovation and collaboration to create solutions relevant to the needs of today and tomorrow.
Wayne Fox , Waterloo Arts Grad, donor, and former Vice-chairman and chief risk officer responsible for Treasury, Balance Sheet Management and Risk Management, CIBC, speaks about the value of an Arts education.
- Parent's Guide 2010/2011
- My student has applied for Fall 2011!
- Financing 2011 e-brochure
- A current student's parent sends you a message!
- Find out more about the Arts Advantage!
- Article: Hovering over the Millennials
- Article: Dr. Larry Smith follow your passions to career goals
- Article: Want Innovative thinking? Hire from the liberal arts
Transition from Home: The Top Ten Ways to Make it Easier
Before they leave:
1. Tour the campus. This shows support for your child’s decision to come to Waterloo for their Arts degree. Speak with our staff and get more of your questions answered.
2. Talk about finances – yours and theirs. There should be some kind of budget and within that budget know what is expected of him/her. If they have a credit card, ensure they understand the pitfalls of misuse.
3.Take on a “see you soon,” not a “goodbye!” attitude. This will help to make moving away more positive for both parent and child.
When they're gone:
4. Send care packages, pictures, letters or emails, and favourite things from home; they want to hear from you. Don't be surprised if they don't reply as often as you'd like. Even if they don’t reply keep them in the loop! Waterloo Food Services offers a care package delivery system. Send them a "Piece of Home" gift basket.
5. Keep an open mind and try to express interest as they tell you about new experiences and friends. They're learning a lot about themselves, friends and their futures.
6. Offer help with their problems and be supportive, but try not to jump in and take over. This is a time for your child to develop problem-solving and organization skills. Ask them, “What do you want to do?”
7. It’s natural to worry a little, but don’t worry too much! A homesick email doesn't always mean you have to drive 100km to campus. Sometimes a bad day just means a bad day, and they want to tell you about it!
8. There is a world of difference between high school and university and every student needs time to adjust. University grades are often lower than high school grades; especially in first year. If you or your child suspects academic difficulty ask them to contact an academic advisor.
9. Be enthusiastic when your child is telling you about courses they’re enjoying and support them when they discover their field of interest. Choosing a major can be stressful and its important they pursue their interests. They will be far more successful if they study what they really like.
When they come home:
10. When they return, know your child will be more independent. They are working towards adulthood and your relationship with your child will change – celebrate their freedom with them. Remind everyone to be patient, because you’ll be different too
Links to Helpful Information
Academic Information - Undergraduate Calendar, important dates
Accommodations for you in the City of Waterloo
allipper [at] uwaterloo [dot] ca (Arts and Letters) - email us to receive your copy of our alumni magazine. Learn more about our graduates and the impact they have.
Career Services
Counselling Services
Health, wellness and campus safety
Living in the City of Waterloo
Office for Persons with Disabilities
Residence Life
Scholarships and Financing Information
Top 10 ways the uWaterloo community has given back!
Waterloo Daily Bulletin - Our daily e-news
Waterloo Libraries
Waterloo Store and Bookstore
Learn more about "Intelligent Waterloo" and what the City of Waterloo and Waterloo Region have to offer to your student!
Contact us
Sarah Lima
Recruitment Coordinator
Faculty of Arts
University of Waterloo
Ontario, Canada, N2L 3G1
Phone: 519-888-4567 x32259
arts [at] uwaterloo [dot] ca
