This article documents the results of an exploratory qualitative study of parents of first-year college students at a doctoral-extensive institution in the Midwest. The qualitative survey instrument asked parents to respond to questions about transition and involvement issues during the first college year of their students. Findings suggest that parents struggled with their students leaving the home, were emotionally supportive of their students, and acknowledged their students' responsibility to resolve conflicts. Survey participants did not display behaviors associated with stereotypical helicopter parents. Implications and specific recommendations for college and university educators are offered.