As a physician, I’ve witnessed the emotional whirlwind that accompanies college drop-off. It’s an experience that feels surreal, and often, it happens in the blink of an eye. One moment you’re at home preparing for the day, the next, you’re in a parking lot filled with other anxious parents, surrounded by dorm essentials and a heart full of mixed emotions. Grab your tissues and prepare yourself for the rollercoaster ahead!
- Wow. This is really happening. He’s leaving home!
- Packing is no walk in the park, especially when it’s your “little one’s” belongings.
- Seriously, one pair of flip-flops? And don’t forget those nice pants!
- Did we forget anything? He needs what?! My budget can’t take this!
- I refuse to make another trip to the store today. No way!
- There’s the dorm! I can handle this. I can manage!
- Wait, can I handle this?
- How did my parents do this 26 years ago?
- So many stairs. Just a reminder: stairs aren’t fun after a night out.
- Also, hangovers aren’t fun. Time for another talk about responsible drinking.
- Look at all these bright-eyed students. They’re full of hope!
- And some look anxious. I want to hug them all! Is eye contact a lost art?
- The nervous ones are lagging behind their equally anxious parents.
- Oh dear, please tell me I’m not that parent.
- I can’t be old enough to have a college kid. Nope!
- That girl looks so young! How can her mom just leave her here?
- Meanwhile, that girl looks like she’s a decade older. My husband is avoiding eye contact.
- Why do girls’ shorts look like underwear? Stop staring, they’re not your daughters!
- But who knows, she could be your future daughter-in-law.
- Not any time soon, please. God, I hope he stays innocent forever.
- Before we leave, let’s go over what “no” means…again.
- Note to self: Consider all-male colleges for the next one.
- Girls in the dorm next door? What year is this, 1955?
- The laundry room is his new domain. Fewer loads for me at home! Thank goodness!
- I’d bet he’ll come back with everything dirty.
- Hello, store! It’s me again.
- Met the roommate. He’s super tidy. This should be interesting!
- One toilet for four boys? I might gag a little.
- Time to buy more cleaning supplies.
- Resist the urge to organize his space! Just… don’t.
- Okay, I’ll at least make the bed. Don’t cry. Hold it together!
- I want to hold him tight, but he’s trying to play it cool.
- Can I really do this?
- Just met the roommate’s dad. We’re both in shock over how fast time flies.
- Instant ramen, rice, and canned soup: basic survival kit, right?
- That mattress looks uncomfortable. Thank goodness it’s wrapped.
- Cherry blossom hand soap? Will they even use this? Yikes!
- Gray and navy everywhere. Boys don’t decorate, do they?
- Can I peek into the girls’ dorms? I bet they’re adorable!
- He’s tossing clothes into drawers without folding them. Deep breath. Not my room!
- Another family is arguing in the hallway. Let’s leave on good terms.
- I can’t do this!
- College kids need so little these days—just a phone and a laptop. How cool!
- If he claims his phone died and doesn’t answer, I’m calling nonsense.
- Backup phone battery? Check. Extra charging cords? Double check.
- Tylenol, cough syrup, band-aids: the essentials. He’ll miss mom when he’s sick.
- Time to say goodbye!
- I can make it through this. I can do this!
- Hug him tightly, express your pride and excitement, and walk out with confidence. Cry only when you’re on the road!
- I did it! I took my kid to college without losing it. Let the tears flow—happy tears!
As you embark on this new journey, remember that your feelings are valid and shared by many. For more insights on parenting and fertility, check out our other posts, including information on home insemination kits from Make a Mom and resources on IVF from Johns Hopkins.
In the end, you’ve done your job well, and this chapter is just the beginning for both you and your child.