As your teen prepares to embark on their college journey, there are a few vital pieces of advice you can get from a teaching assistant that may ease your worries. Here are five crucial insights that can help set your student up for success.
1. Goals Are Flexible
As a parent, it’s easy to want to map out your child’s future, from the best schools to ideal career paths. While it’s natural to have aspirations for your teen, it’s essential to understand that goals can change. Many students step into college with a plan, while others are still figuring things out. When they realize it’s perfectly acceptable to switch gears, it alleviates pressure and allows them to focus on their studies.
2. Straight A’s Aren’t the Standard
It’s common for high school students to graduate with impressive grades, but college is a whole different ballgame. A 4.0 GPA in high school doesn’t automatically translate to the same performance in college. In my experience as a teaching assistant at various large universities, most professors adhere to a bell curve when grading. So, while it’s great to aim high, students should prepare for the reality that straight A’s are more of an exception than the rule.
3. Your Child is Now an Adult
It can be tough to let go, but your college freshman is now an adult. As a teaching assistant in my late 30s, I often catch myself calling my students “kids” when they are, in fact, adults. Encourage them to take responsibility for their choices. If they skip classes or don’t complete assignments, they will face the consequences. And believe me, I’ve seen too many parents email professors asking for grade changes—this rarely ends well for anyone involved.
4. Talk Safety, Not Just Abstinence
No matter how strict your guidelines may be, your teen will encounter sex, drugs, and alcohol on campus. They might remain abstinent or dive headfirst into the party scene. It’s vital to have open conversations about the potential dangers of binge drinking, substance abuse, and sexual health. Instead of merely warning them against these activities, discuss safety and the importance of making informed decisions.
5. Encourage Use of Campus Resources
When you receive that tuition bill, you’ll notice extra fees that fund various campus services. These resources are available to help your student thrive—be it through recreational facilities, counseling, or health services. Rather than swooping in to solve every problem, encourage your student to leverage these resources. It’s a great way for them to develop independence and problem-solving skills. Whether they need to de-stress at the gym or seek help with coursework, there are plenty of options available.
As they step into this new chapter, these insights can help both you and your teen navigate the challenges of college life. For more tips, check out this fantastic resource on home insemination, which can be useful for those considering family planning in the future.
In summary, preparing your teen for college involves understanding the fluid nature of goals, the reality of grades, and the importance of independence. Open discussions about safety and utilizing campus resources are essential in helping them flourish.