Families and Supporters
Let's Keep the Conversation Going
Whether you attended New Student Orientation or are joining us now, we’re excited to have you as part of the Cougar Family! The first six weeks of college are your student’s launch window, it's a critical time to build momentum, make connections, and explore everything UH has to offer.
Launch Pad to Success
Your student should be building a foundation for success during their first six weeks. That’s why we created Launch Pad to Success, a choose-your-own-adventure designed to help students take charge of their college experience, one week at a time. Each week, Peer Assistant Leaders (PALs) share a new mission, these are quick, meaningful actions that help students find their footing and connect with resources.
Family and Supporter Guide for the First Six Weeks
Ask your student:
“Have you found your classes and a good study spot?”
“Did you download the UH Go and Navigate apps?”
Tip: Encourage them to check the Weeks of Welcome calendar and share one event they’re excited about.
Ask your student:
“Have you joined a student organization or a DEN?”
“Who’s someone new you’ve met this week?”
Tip: Suggest they attend at least one event and tell you about it. Not sure what's happening on campus? Click here to view the UH Calendar of Events.
Ask your student:
“Have you visited LAUNCH tutoring or the Writing Center yet?”
“Did you go to a professor’s office hours?”
Tip: Remind them that building relationships with professors and PALs now pays off later.
Ask your student:
“What’s one thing you’ve done for your well-being this week?”
“Have you checked out Campus Recreation?”
Tip: Normalize conversations about mental health and self-care.
Ask your student:
“Have you visited Career Services or thought about internships?”
“What’s an event or volunteer opportunity you’re interested in?”
Tip: Encourage them to try something outside their comfort zone.
Ask your student:
“What’s one thing you’re proud of from these first weeks?”
“Have you met with your advisor and set goals for the semester?”
Tip: Celebrate wins—big or small—and talk about what’s next.
Staying Engaged After New Student Orientation
You play a big role in your student’s success, during their first six weeks and beyond! Here are some ways to stay connected:
- Follow the Launch Pad to Success Weekly Themes (see the guide above).
- After the first six weeks, follow your student's Cougar Tracks. These are year-by-year guides designed to help students make the most of every stage of their experience.
- Use Academic Maps to help your student track their academic progress and make intentional enrollment choices each semester.
- Join UH Family Connections. A new way to stay involved with your student and UH. Access for Cougar families sponsored by UH Parent & Family Programs.
- Explore Parent and Family Programs and attend Parent and Family events like Family Weekend and Siblings Day.
- Stay Connected with Coog Moms the official parent membership organization of UH.