It's unlikely that your student won't have plenty of stories to tell about life at Grand Valley but just in case, we've put together a list of good conversation starters. We've organized them by academic month so you'll always have something fresh (and relevant) to talk about.

September

• Are you planning to go to Campus Life Night?
• Are you using a planner? How are you staying organized?
• If you are choosing to work, how flexible is that schedule with your class schedule?
• Have you personally introduced yourself to your faculty members?
• How is it going with meeting your "neighbors" and/or making new friends?
• Have you used the campus bus service yet?
• Have you completed the mySuccessCheck survey?

For students living away from home/on-campus:

• Have you met your Resident Assistant from the Office of Housing and Residence Life?
• How is it going with your roommate(s)?

October

• Have you visited your faculty members during office hours?
• Are you planning to participate in the campus Make a Difference Day?
• How are your finances?
• Are you ready for mid-term exams? Do you need tutoring assistance?

For students living away from home/on-campus:

• Do you know how to sign up for on-campus housing for the next academic year?
• Have you eaten in many of the dining options on-campus?
• How are you adjusting to your roommate(s)?

November

• Do you know what your grades are going into finals week?
• Have you met with an academic advisor yet?
• Are you prepared for colder weather? (coat, boots, car needs)

For students living away from home/on-campus:

• Do you know what is expected of you from the Office of Housing and Residence Life to leave your residential area for Thanksgiving break?
• Have you reviewed the winter break policy provided by the Office of Housing and Residence Life?

December

• When is your last day of exams for the fall semester?
• When do classes start for the winter semester?
• Did you meet your academic goals for the semester?

For students living away from home/on-campus:

• What "supplies" from your room do you need access to over the winter break?

January

• How do you feel about your winter semester schedule?
• Do you have a study plan for your classes this semester?
• Are you planning to participate in the Martin Luther King, Jr. campus march?
• Are you planning to have family/friends visit during Sibs and Kids weekend?
• Do you know where the Campus Health Center is located?

For students living away from home/on-campus:

• How is it going with your roommate(s)?

February

• Are you preparing for midterm exams?
• Have you pursued academic advising if you need it?
• What are your plans for spring break next month?
• Are you being healthy in your relationships?

March

• Do you need assistance with scheduling classes for next year?
• Have you attended a diversity event on campus?
• How are you taking care of yourself?
• Have you thought about your summer plans? Have you started looking or secured a summer job/internship?
• Are you planning to take summer classes? Have you investigated if the classes transfer to GVSU if you are taking them elsewhere?

April

• Did you meet your academic goals/expectations this semester?
• How are you preparing for final exams?
• Do you feel prepared for your classes next year?
• How have you changed since August?
• How do you plan to keep in touch with your new friends this summer?

For students living away from home/on-campus:

• Have you scheduled a time with your Resident Assistant to officially check out of your living area?