130. How to Ask for Help in College – With Psychologist Dr. Susan VanScoyoc

Episode 130

College can make students feel all kinds of ways: thrilled at the freedom, excited at the possibilities, and overwhelmed with the independence that's suddenly expected of them.

In my conversation with board-certified psychologist Dr. Susan VanScoyoc, we talk about how to ask for help when college gets hard — and why most students (and their parents) are getting this wrong.

Dr. VanScoyoc is the founder of Campus Confidant, where she helps families navigate the emotional and practical challenges of the college years. Her core message: college is a bridge, not a launch.


What You Learn:

  • The 4 myths that stop college students from asking for help

  • Why "I should be able to handle this" is the most dangerous thing a student can think

  • The 3 types of support you can ask for (and which one is the easiest place to start

  • What a "bandwidth checker" is — and why every student needs one

  • What parents can watch for when their student goes quiet

  • Tips for parents: how to offer support without jumping straight to solutions

🔗 Resources + Episodes Mentioned:

Never stop learning.

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About Dr. Susan VanScoyoc

Dr. Susan VanScoyoc is a psychologist, parenting coach, and founder of Campus Confident, where she helps families of college students navigate the emotional and practical changes that come with this life transition. With over 25 years of experience working with families, along with her own college parenting experiences, she focuses on practical ways to manage stress, communicate effectively, and use support systems well during the college years. She teaches that college is a bridge, not a launch, and gives families clear, realistic ways to stay connected as students grow into independence.

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129. Homework Management Tips and Starting Over as an Adult (Q&A)