Preparing Your Student for Life at Pace: Essential Conversations for Parents

Pace Path/Student Success

Moving away from home for the first time can be both exciting and challenging. Here are key topics to discuss to help your student succeed academically, manage their finances, stay healthy and safe, and maintain open communication.

Pace University student with a park in the background
Pace University student with a park in the background
Alyssa Cressotti

As your child prepares to start their journey at Pace University this fall, it's crucial to have some important conversations to ensure they are ready for the transition. Moving away from home for the first time can be both exciting and challenging. Here are key topics to discuss to help your student succeed academically, manage their finances, stay healthy and safe, and maintain open communication.

Academics

Discuss your child's academic aspirations and what they hope to achieve during their time at Pace University. It's important to set realistic expectations, as college courses can be more demanding than high school. Encourage them to take ownership of their academic journey, reminding them that their major and course selections should align with their interests and career goals. Additionally, reassure them that it's normal for grades to fluctuate as they adjust to the new academic environment.

Finances

Financial literacy is crucial for college students. Talk to your child about budgeting and the importance of managing their money wisely. Explain how to use credit cards responsibly and the potential consequences of mismanagement. Discuss the possibility of part-time employment and how to balance work with academic responsibilities. Providing practical advice on these topics can help them avoid financial pitfalls and develop good money habits.

Health and Safety

Ensure your child understands their health insurance coverage, including how to use it and the differences between in-network and out-of-network services. Teach them basic self-care skills such as washing clothes, cleaning their living space, and managing medications. It's also essential to have open conversations about alcohol and other drugs, setting clear expectations and discussing the importance of making safe choices. Emphasize the availability of campus resources and support systems in case they need assistance.

Communication

Establish a communication plan that works for both you and your student. Discuss how often and through what means you will stay in touch, while recognizing that this may evolve over time. Encourage your child to reach out to appropriate resources when they need help, whether it's academic advisors, mental health services, or campus security. Knowing who to contact in different situations can provide them with a sense of security and independence.

By addressing these topics before your student leaves for Pace, you can help them feel more confident and prepared for the challenges ahead. Your guidance and support will be invaluable as they embark on this exciting new chapter in their lives.

Encourage your student to visit Pace’s Pace 101: Your Guide to University Life website. Here, they can find the right office, resource, or person to help troubleshoot any first-year issues and explore ways to get involved in the Pace Community.

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The Top 10 People (and Offices!) You Need to Know at Pace

At Pace, you’ve got an entire team in your corner. These are the top 10 people (and offices!) every new student—and their families—should know, right from the start.

Pace students working in the Learning Commons.
Pace students at the annual job and internship fair.
Alyssa Cressotti

Starting college is exciting—but let’s be real, it can be a lot. Knowing who’s who on campus can make all the difference when you need answers, advice, or support. At Pace, you’ve got an entire team in your corner. These are the top 10 people (and offices!) every new student—and their families—should know, right from the start.

#1 Your Academic Advisor

Your advisor is your personal guide to navigating majors, choosing classes, and staying on track to graduate. They’re one of the most important people you’ll meet at Pace—reach out early and check in often.

#2 Your Professors

They’re not just here to teach—they’re mentors, connectors, and champions for your academic success. Go to office hours, introduce yourself after class, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

#3 The Dean for Students

The Dean for Students oversees student life and support services and advocates for your overall experience. If you’re not sure where to go for help, this is a great place to start.

#4 Your Resident Assistant (RA)

Living on campus? Your RA is a fellow student trained to help you with everything from roommate questions to connecting with campus life. They’re also your go-to for building community in your residence hall.

#5 The Center for Student Engagement Team

Whether you want to join a club, plan an event, or get involved in leadership programs, this is the team that makes it happen. They’ll help you find your people—and your purpose.

#6 Your Career Counselor

It’s never too early to visit Career Services. They’ll help you build a resume, prepare for internships, explore job options, and plan for what comes after graduation.

#7 Your Financial Aid Rep

Questions about your aid package? Need help navigating the FAFSA or scholarship options? The Financial Aid team can walk you through your options and keep your finances on track.

#8 Staff in the Learning Commons

Whether you need help with writing, math, or any other subject, the Learning Commons offers free tutoring and study support. They’re a major key to academic success.

#9 University Health Care and the Counseling Center

Your physical and mental health matter. These licensed professionals provide everything from wellness visits to mental health counseling—confidentially and at no extra cost.

#10 Campus Safety

On every campus, Safety and Security is available 24/7, 365. They’re your resource for emergency alerts, safety escorts, and peace of mind for students and families alike.

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Starting college is a big move—and at Pace, it’s your moment to take the lead. From finding your rhythm to navigating new responsibilities, the choices you make now help shape your experience. We’ve curated five smart, straightforward tips to help you start strong and thrive as a first-year student.

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Choosing the right college is a big decision—for both students and their families. At Pace University, we understand that you’re not just sending your student off to school—you’re investing in their future. Here are five reasons you can feel confident about what’s ahead for your student at Pace.

Clubs and Orgs at Pace

With more than 100 student clubs and orgs at Pace University, there’s something for everyone to get involved in.

Students in NYC at the Student Activities Fair.
Student smiling at the camera making a peace sign.

With more than 100 student organizations at Pace University, there’s something for everyone to get involved in. Each semester, the Center for Student Engagement hosts involvement fairs, where you can meet all of our clubs and organizations, chat with representatives, and find out how you can sign up. Here's an overview of the different types of student clubs and orgs offered on the New York City and Westchester campuses.

Use SetterSync to Connect with Current Clubs and Orgs

Student clubs and orgs at Pace use SetterSync to stay connected, share updates, and promote events. See what's happening and who's hosting at: 

New York City Campus SetterSync  Westchester Campus SetterSync

Academic Interests

Whether you’re a nursing major interested in getting involved with SNAP or a crime buff interested in the Criminal Justice Society or Forensic Science Student Organization, take your interests to the next level with these student orgs.

Business Professionals

From marketing plans to market analysis, choose from more than 20 Pace student clubs and orgs that are getting down to business.

Media and Entertainment

Whether you’re interested in writing, reporting, TV, or concert-planning, Pace has got you covered. Now back to you, Jillian!

Visual and Performing Arts

Can you dance your tail off? Put on a show? Do you have the pipes that will make people feel aca-awesome or fill them with irrepressible joy? Our performing and visual arts student organizations are looking for you!

Cultural and Social

From Latin flavor to rainbow pride, Pace has more than 20 cultural student organizations to choose from!

Politics and Advocacy

Change makers in the movement to end cancer; promote peace; and save our planet. All in a day’s work for a Pace student.

Greek Life

If you want to go Greek, then you’re in the right place! From the Alpha to the Omega, check out which sororities and fraternities are on campus.

Student Governance

SGA, RHA, BAC, SAAC. If you don’t know these acronyms, then you don’t know the student leaders of your University.

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20 Things Every New Pace Student Should Do

New here? We’ve got you. From ID cards to goat yoga (yeah, you read that right), this list has everything you need to kick off your Pace experience the right way.

Pace students lining up for a food truck at homecoming.
Pace students on the escalator at Fulton Center.
Alyssa Cressotti

New here? We’ve got you. From ID cards to goat yoga (we've included a baby goat in this list), this list has everything you need to kick off your Pace experience the right way.

  1. Upload your Pace ID photo before arriving on campus. This unlocks access to everything from dining halls to campus events.
  2. Meet with your academic advisor. They’ll help you build a class schedule and stay on track to graduate on time.
  3. Explore your First-Year Experience or Transfer Experience programming. Tailored support ensures your transition to Pace is smooth and meaningful.

    Image
    Pace students posing for a photo on Alumni Lawn.
  4. Download the Pace Mobile app. Stay connected to campus events, resources, alerts, and more.
  5. Log in to SetterSync. It’s your portal to student orgs, upcoming events, and campus opportunities.
  6. Stop by the Center for Student Engagement. Get involved, build your network, and make your mark.
  7. Visit the Learning Commons. Whether you need tutoring or just want a study boost, it’s your academic support hub.
  8. Tour the Pace Library. Grab a quiet corner or tap into 120+ databases—it’s your research HQ.
  9. Attend Weeks of Welcome (WOW) events. From goat yoga to campus carnivals, these are can’t-miss memory-makers.
  10. Set up your meal plan and scope out your favorite spots. Try acai bowls at Pace Fit, milkshakes at Pace Perk, or pizza at Rosella’s.
  11. Learn your campus inside and out. Whether it's the 6th floor of 15 Beekman or the Kessel Student Center, find your go-to spaces.
  12. Explore the Counseling Center and Center for Wellbeing. These services are here for you—use them when you need support.
  13. Familiarize yourself with Pace’s Safety and Security resources. Update your Pace Alerts info and download the PaceSafe app.

    Image
    Students playing BINGO at a table.
  14. Explore New York City or Westchester like a local. From Broadway trips to nature trails, Pace gives you access to it all.
  15. Visit the Auxiliary Services office. Set up essentials like your mail, textbooks, and meal plan info.
  16. Follow Pace University on Instagram. It's the easiest way to stay in the loop.
  17. Attend a campus tradition. Homecoming, SpringFest, Late Night Breakfast—these are Pace must-dos.
  18. Visit Career Services. Yes, even as a new student. Start building your resume early.
  19. Check out the food resources if you need support. Pace Provisions and the Fare Trade program are here to help.
  20. Say yes to something new! Join a club or student organization. Go to an open mic. Try goat yoga. You never know what you’ll love.
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A goat walking on students during a goat yoga session.
We told you there would be goats.
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