You might want to have a guest book handy where people can write their favorite tip: "When I was in school, the best thing I did was (join the chess club, take up dancing, keep my work hours short, have a good breakfast every morning)"

After your student has gone off to college, you can continue to help if you know what's going on. Guard against losing interest. Ask about progress, credits, and requirements. Many counselors have found that even high-risk students do well when they have supportive parents who remain flexible and approving as their student tries out changes in jobs, schedules, and career directions.

Dr. McIntire is the author of College Keys: Getting In, Doing Well, Avoiding the 4 Big Mistakes.