It’s several weeks into your child’s first semester of college and college has been a miserable experience. Maybe you’re not told this directly, but maybe your once-happy child calls you multiple times per day, sobbing. Your instinct might say to drive to campus, pick up the upset student, and return to pre-collegiate days. Instead, give the situation some time.
Time to Adjust
Most new college students need time to adjust. You can help your college student in these early days by being available to talk to, but not intervening. At the college, your child likely has academic advisors to provide support for classes, as well as counseling services. While you can’t make your child do anything, you can suggest those resources.
Involvement and Encouragement
Suggest some ways for your child to get involved if weeks pass and an extra push seems necessary. Remember that you probably can’t have access to any of your child’s records or make decisions. This might be difficult for you. You can, however, congratulate your college student on accomplishments in simple ways. After a successful exam, you could send a care package Dearborn Heights MI, or have a video call if you usually speak over the phone. Highlight the good.
“The Old College Try”
Sometimes, after a semester or more, your child still says that the particular college isn’t right. Listen and provide support. What reasons does your student give? If your student gets good grades, attends weekly counseling sessions, is co-president of a campus club, and still says the “fit” isn’t right, it probably isn’t. Don’t frame the experience as a failure, but as an experience that will lead somewhere else. Talk about transferring schools and other options as exciting opportunities.
College is a time of change and learning for both the parent and child. Approach this time with openness and you’ll learn alongside your student, having some fun as well.
