My Dad, back in Florida for two weeks, has called me at least four times a week and texted me at least once a day. My mom constantly asks me questions about my room and what I need. I can see the worry in their eyes and hear the frantic tone in their voice. They are worried sick about me going to college, and I haven’t even left yet.
1. She'll never call
Parents seem to think that just because we’re not living under their roof means that we feel like we don’t have to keep in touch. We miss you too, so don’t worry. Even though your little girl will be a thousand miles away from home, that doesn’t mean that she’s not just a phone call away.
2. She’ll go wild
Maybe social media’s in part to blame for this one, but not to worry. If your daughter didn’t grow up under a rock and isn’t wild and crazy by 18, it can’t get much worse. You made it through college, we will too.
3. She won’t have enough for her room
If I had 20 bucks for every time my mom asked me about my microwave and my bedding and my hamper, I would have enough money to drop out of college and live on my own. If we desperately need something we don’t have, we’re in a civilized area, and there’s an amazing website called Amazon prime.
4. She’ll date a wacko
I understand this concern, but trust that we have some good friends leading us in the right direction.
5. She won’t dress nicely for class
I’m not going to lie on this one. I am going to fully take advantage of the no dress code (for the first time in 18 years). But don’t worry, I’ll fit in.
6. She won’t ask you for help anymore
Maybe this will be true for the first month or so from being so excited to have our own freedom, but we know we still need your guidance and we want your help. Sorry, Dad, I know you thought you escaped helping me with bio, but think again.
7. She won’t eat right
It might be tough figuring out how to choose the right food from the dining hall, but after a few meals of mac and cheese, we’ll make our way back to the salad bar.
8. She won’t make friends
There’s someone for everyone. The difficult part is going out and finding those people. Don’t worry too much about this one, finding friends on your own is an important thing to do.
9. She won’t know what to do without you
Sometimes she won’t. But she’ll figure it out. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow into the person college pushes her to be.
10. She won’t miss you
Even though she may get caught up in the freedom at first, she will miss you more than you know. She will miss your home cooked meals and your presence at her games and performances. She will miss your constant love and support, but she knows you’ll always be there. Give her some space and try not to worry too much, she’ll be home in November.