The summer before your student begins college can be an emotional time. Both you and your student are excited about the future journey and also nervous about how life will inevitably change. We asked current CWRU students how to make the most of this last summer with your student before the next chapter in their life begins:
- Spend time with your family. This may include going on a trip, attending a game, watching movies or going shopping.
- Start a tradition with your family that can continue each time that your student comes home. One student picks up her brother from school, goes to Taco Bell and catches up on life every time she visits home.
- Take pictures so your student has something to bring with them to campus.
- Go to your favorite restaurants or local hotspots that are memorable that can only be done when at home. Visit places in town that you have been meaning to try.
- Talk about the upcoming changes. Plan for phone calls and visits, teach them life skills, and discuss their goals and fears.
No matter how you spend the summer, be present in the moment without focusing on the sadness that you may feel in the future. Make sure your student knows you are going to miss them, but you have confidence in their ability to succeed!