You’ve packed their bags, driven them to campus, and now your college kid is ready to embark on what could be the most exhilarating four years of their life. While they dive into academics and explore newfound freedoms, I hope they also seize some unforgettable moments—some exhilarating, some challenging, but all valuable in shaping their journey.
- Go on an unforgettable road trip. The kind where meals are exclusively from convenience stores and sleep is an optional luxury.
- Enroll in a class taught by a professor whose views clash with your own. Sit up front, engage actively, ask questions, and resist the urge to criticize.
- Stand up for someone’s right to free speech, even if their views completely oppose yours. It’s essential to learn to respect differing opinions.
- Join in on intramural sports. Play as many as possible—this is your last chance to enjoy such carefree activities.
- Attend every free foreign film screening and live performance offered on campus. Trust me, it’s worth it.
- Take advantage of free lectures from distinguished speakers. No social media feed can provide the insights of live interactions.
- Go a semester eating nothing but instant noodles and pizza. Perhaps some fries too—those late-night games burn a lot of calories.
- Experience heartbreak. Getting dumped will provide a humbling and valuable lesson in resilience.
- Encourage a classmate who’s considering dropping out to stick with it. Your support could make all the difference for someone who lacks encouragement.
- Invite someone to spend the holidays with your family who can’t make it home. That one student from across the country might appreciate a warm welcome.
- Master a delicious dish that wows a date. Equip your first kitchen with the essentials for preparing a fantastic roast chicken.
- Get your car towed a time or two. It’s a good lesson in personal responsibility and following the rules.
- Have some legendary parties. While I don’t endorse excessive drinking or reckless behavior, a few unforgettable nights can create lasting memories.
- Participate in student government meetings and advocate for a cause important to you. You’ll have a say in how student fees are allocated.
- Work on campus in an office with knowledgeable faculty. Their discussions will keep your mind sharp and engaged.
- Change your major multiple times. If you’re unsure of your path, that’s perfectly okay—keep exploring!
- Start a business with friends. Whether it’s moving furniture or offering rideshare services, earn some cash together.
- Skip class occasionally. Missing a pop quiz will teach you that every minute of instruction is valuable.
- Misplace an expensive textbook you bought yourself. It’s a tough lesson in responsibility and managing your belongings.
- Discover all the free food on campus, especially during the first weeks of the semester and finals week. It’s everywhere!
- Have a blast so memorable that you wish it could last forever. Life gets tough, so make the most of these moments.
- Be prepared to move on. Eventually, it’s important to embrace the real world with confidence and clarity (and hopefully, no hangover).
As your student navigates these experiences, they’ll grow in ways they never expected. For those interested in exploring family planning options, check out our article on home insemination kits for more insights.
In summary, college is not just about academics but also about personal growth and unforgettable experiences. Encourage your college kid to embrace both the fun and the challenges that come their way.