Almost all first-year students, no matter their age, are connected to other family members. Your family might be your parents and siblings, a partner, or a spouse and children. The relationships that you have with family members can be a source of support throughout your college years, and it’s important that you do your part to maintain those relationships.

If you come from a cultural background that values family relationships and responsibilities above everything else, you will also have to work to balance your home life and your college life. In some cultures, if your grandmother or aunt needs help, that might be considered just as important—or more important—than going to class or taking an exam.

Negotiating the demands of college and family can be difficult. However, most college instructors will be flexible with requirements if you have genuine problems with meeting a deadline because of family obligations. But it’s important that you explain your situation to your instructors; don’t expect them to guess what you need. As the demands on your time increase, it’s also important that you talk with family members to help them understand your role and responsibilities as a student.