A Different Kind of College Checklist
Some of you are launching your youngster off as a freshman in college very soon. You are likely in a whirlwind, getting endless piles of stuff together. I remember it well- what is an extra-long twin bed anyway? Or, others are watching their bedroom turn into a collection way station. She/he knows what is what, but it looks suspect to you.
I know you don’t have much time to read this, so I’ll be brief, for once. Let me suggest just three more things you may want to cover with them.
First, your student always has choices and options. Reaffirm that with them. Look them in the eye and say it. If you made the right choice, great! If not, first give it a chance. Get into the routine of classes, get involved, develop new friends. But, if after all that effort is made, and it simply is not a right fit, you will help them with their plan B.
Second, remember why your student is going to college. Does saying that surprise you? It shouldn’t. I don’t think many parents speak to that these days. We tend to say things like, have a good time, be careful, or don’t party too much, but we never speak to the core of going to college. I told mine, do the work, and you will still have plenty of time for other things. But, do the work.
Third, you are now responsible for your daily choices, and everything has a price. If you stay out late and it’s hard to make early classes. Organize to class assignments and deadlines. Treat yourself with respect- eat decently, get your rest, and get some physical exercise to help reduce the stress.
Parents and guardians, if you are sacrificing one dime to help with their education, you should know their grades. Did you know your kids have to give you permission to see those grades? When we were enrolling our daughter, they explained that to me. With a slight grin, she said, you know, I don’t have to show you my grades. To which I replied, you know, I don’t have to show you my wallet, either.
I thought the admissions advisor was going to die laughing, but she recovered and gave me a wink.
Reasonable results (you determine what this looks like) that count towards graduation are the minimum to expect every time you write the check. Spoken expectations have a way of sticking in our student’s brains. Speak in love, but be very clear.
Have a great transition to college, one and all!
Next week- a true life Aesop’s Fable. Sadly, no one made this up.
Until Next Time,
All My Best,
Bonnie Burkett
