Page 10 - UMKC Parent and Family Insider

1ST YEAR SURVIVAL TIPS...
CONVERSATIONS WITH YOUR COLLEGE STUDENT
By Scott Sager
During a dash to Home Depot on move-in day, with just the two of us in the car, I made my daughter put her phone down and listen as I told her two things: she could always call for help, anytime, no matter what, and she could bring anyone home
as long as they treated her respectfully. To me, these were the most important messages I could give her to start college and an independent life.
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Every parent has something they want their student to take with them, that fundamental nugget of advice or wisdom, a skill or perspective that will help them survive their first year on campus. One wants her son to think of school like a job, taking it seriously and not missing out
on the opportunities college provides. Another wants her daughter to always get her own drinks and never leave one unattended, reflecting concern about personal safety.
In addition to thinking about what to tell them is when and how. The moment you’re giving your good-bye kisses may not be ideal because your son is already thinking about where he needs to be next and how to find the dining hall. When you’re touring your daughter’s residence hall on move-in day and find the laundry room, it’s too late to teach her how to separate clothes and when to use cold
or hot water.