Parent Perspectives

In this episode of Parent Perspectives, host Bryan Johnson talks with Julie Abernathy, Assistant Director of Career Programming at The University of Alabama Career Center, about how career fairs can benefit students at every stage of their college journey. From exploring career interests and practicing professional networking to securing internships and building relationships with employers, career fairs offer valuable opportunities long before graduation. Parents will learn how to encourage their students to take advantage of these events, prepare with confidence, and develop the skills and connections that can help shape their future careers.

In this episode of Parent Perspectives, host Bryan Johnson talks with Brendan Roszman, Health Promotion Specialist for Financial Wellness at The University of Alabama, about helping students develop smart money habits during their college years. From creating a budget and building healthy spending habits to understanding credit, savings, and financial decision-making, the conversation explores practical strategies that can set students up for long-term financial success. Parents will learn how to support their students’ financial independence, encourage productive money conversations, and connect them with the many financial wellness resources available on campus.

In this episode of Parent Perspectives, host Shafonne Myers talks with Luna McDavid, Career Advisor at The University of Alabama Career Center, about preparing students for graduate and professional school. They discuss when students should begin planning for advanced degrees, how to build competitive applications through academics, research, leadership, internships, and faculty relationships, and what families should know about navigating the graduate school application process. Parents will gain practical advice on supporting their students as they explore future educational opportunities, prepare application materials, secure recommendations, and take advantage of campus resources that can help them achieve their long-term career goals.

In this episode of Parent Perspectives, host Jennifer Solomon talks with Nikki Sarabat, Director of The University of Alabama’s new Office of Internships, about the critical role internships play in student success. Together, they discuss why students should begin exploring internships early, how real-world experience builds confidence and career readiness, and the ways the new Office of Internships is helping connect students with meaningful opportunities across industries. Parents will learn how they can encourage their students to take advantage of available resources, embrace professional growth, and gain valuable experience that can shape their future careers.

In this episode of Parent Perspectives, host Jennifer Solomon talks with Sheena Gregg, Director of Health Promotion and Wellness at The University of Alabama, about helping students build healthy eating habits beyond the dining hall. From grocery shopping and simple meal preparation to navigating busy schedules, game days, and life on a college budget, Sheena shares practical strategies students can use to fuel their bodies and support their academic success. Parents will gain insight into how they can encourage healthy habits, provide support without taking over, and help students develop lifelong wellness skills built on balance,

In this episode of Parent Perspectives, host Amber Charboneau sits down with Jonie Threatt, Director of Advising in the Capstone Center for Student Success, to discuss the tools and resources that help University of Alabama students stay on track for graduation. From Degree Works and four-year academic plans to advising appointments, registration strategies, and transfer credit considerations, the conversation offers valuable insights into how students can successfully navigate their academic journey. Parents will learn how they can support their students while encouraging them to take ownership of their education and make the most of the many resources available on campus.

In Season 2, Episode 1 of Parent Perspectives, The University of Alabama Career Advisor Lacey Borden discusses how students can explore and choose a college major without feeling pressured to have their future fully mapped out. She highlights resources available through the UA Career Center, including one-on-one career advising, personality and career assessments, the UA Majors website, career fairs, workshops, and informational interviews.

In this episode of Parent Perspectives, hosts and experienced parents share practical tips and strategies to help families navigate college move-in day at the University of Alabama. From pre-arrival preparation, like hosting a “packing party” and bringing a well-stocked “mom/go bag”, to insights on what to pack (and what to skip), the conversation focuses on reducing stress and staying flexible. Also, check out the Campus Move-in Webinar!

This episode of the UA Parent Perspectives Podcast focuses on the transition parents must make when their student goes to college—from being a manager to a coach. Parents are encouraged to step back from controlling schedules, solving problems, and monitoring grades, and instead support their student’s independence by asking guiding questions, fostering problem-solving skills, and building trust.