Family is important. They are a source of strength, stability, and security and often your greatest ally in your academic pursuits. Understanding their needs is as important as their support of yours, so communication is key. Here are some practical ideas to help your family understand your challenges and responsibilities as you pursue your degree, and to help you understand how your school life may affect your family.

• It is important that your significant other understands how important he or she is in your life. Make time for each other – even if it requires scheduling.

• Continue to share your dreams and goals with your partner, and discuss how achieving your educational goal will benefit the entire family.
• Include your significant other in your academic decisions and seek his or her advice about choices. Let your significant other know how you are progressing.
• Giving notice of upcoming deadlines is important. Be sure your partner/family is aware of stress periods – midterms, paper deadlines, presentations, finals – when you need to focus more time and attention on school work.
• Discuss how family responsibilities and duties are shared or accomplished, especially during stress periods.
• If you are the primary cook, work out alternatives for school nights – another family member cooks, pizza delivery, pre-prepared casseroles, etc.
• If you are the one who primarily picks up the children from day care, can someone else pick them up during stress times?
• Tell your significant other often how much you appreciate his or her support.