Going away to college has actually made me closer with my parents. Here are five ways my parents and I have actually become closer after going to college...
1. You have more in common
You've finally breached that gap and are no longer a "child." You're an adult and it seems like you and your parents have more in common. My dad and I can geek-out together and talk pharmaceuticals and business. In the past, it was more about how school went or when dinner is going to be ready. Finally you've reached into more meaningful conversations about life, things you care about, and things your parents are interested in that you finally understand.
2. They tell you more
This could possibly be due to the fact that you can now drink together, so more information spills. Yes, they knew you were hungover in high school. They also laid in bed and laughed at your stupidity when you threw a party in the basement. But now, they will tell you that they did the same thing. You hear all their crazy stories and can laugh about how you and your mom made some of the same decisions. Apparently the apple really doesn't fall far from the tree.
3. You're significantly more honest with them
Now, you're not going to get in trouble with your parents for the decisions you make. You're more of an adult, so if there are consequences, you're stuck dealing with them on your own. BUT now you can tell your parents that you messed up and look for some guidance instead of trying to hide it so you don't get in trouble. It seems like there is a more collective team working on you being successful. Have a pain in the ass teacher and flunking a class? Want to know how long a bottle of wine is good after opening it? Your parents know how to help.
4. You're closer with them
Your parents are no longer out to enforce rules in your life and prevent your fun. You have more fun bonding because there is less of a filter put on the situation. You also value the time you spend with them a lot more because of how little time you get to spend with them. You realize that the time you get to spend with them could be less and less depending on how far away your life ends up taking you.
5. They are your central hub for information
They keep you updated on your grandparents, sister, brother, aunts, uncles, and everyone in between. Sometimes life gets busy and you get so wrapped up with college that you forget to check in with your extended family. They oftentimes get to see the family more than you do as well and can keep you in the loop when it gets hard for you to. A simple phone call can turn in to an hour long conversation about grandma or the life decisions your little brother is making.
