Sending your student off to college

Sending your student off to college requires a delicate balance of knowing when to hold on and when to let go. I’ve read a lot of articles on the subject and here are a few of the tips I came across that seem to make the most sense based on my experiences as a parent and someone who worked at a college for many years.

Convey confidence. Parental encouragement is more important than students typically acknowledge.

Keep the lines of communication open. Once they are in college, you are no longer entitled to information on grades or issues they are experiencing. Try not to respond too harshly and try to just listen (easier said than done)

Don't rush in and solve problems. Students need the experience of solving problems on their own.

Be realistic about grades. Students are going to be faced with difficult and demanding coursework. Not every straight-A student in high school will be a straight-A student in college. They usually figure it out and improve after their first year.

Talk about finances. Let your student know what you will and will not contribute to college expenses.

Inform your student about important family matters, even if the news is not good. While there is no need to share every family issue, keeping developments from students can make them anxious as they imagine what else might be happening back home without their knowledge.

Remind yourself that the character you worked to develop will guide them now.

Good luck packing the car and hope there is air conditioning on move in day!! You got this! ☺