So Long, Summer: Helping Your Young Adult Transition Back to College

Ah, late summer in Arizona. The days are still long and warm, and you've (hopefully!) enjoyed a few months of having your young adult back home. But now, the familiar mix of emotions is stirring again: excitement for their next chapter, a tinge of sadness at their departure, and perhaps a bit of relief at the prospect of regaining your quiet time (admit it, you love them, but you also love your routine). Sending your young adult back to college is a significant transition, both for them and for you. Let's explore how to make this farewell as smooth and supportive as possible.

For your college student, this transition can be a whirlwind of mixed feelings. They're likely excited to reunite with friends, dive back into their studies (or at least the social aspects of college life), and regain their independence. However, they might also feel a bit anxious about leaving the comfort of home, adjusting to campus life again, and facing the academic pressures of a new semester. As Feldman and Backscheider (2016) point out, the transition back to college can be a stressful time for students, involving academic, social, and emotional adjustments.

For parents, this time can also be emotionally complex. You've had the opportunity to reconnect with your child, witness their growth, and perhaps even enjoy some quality time together. Saying goodbye again can bring up feelings of loss, even as you're proud of their progress and excited for their future.

Here are some tips to help both you and your young adult navigate this transition with grace and understanding, keeping in mind the unique aspects of the late summer timing:

• Start the Conversation Early: Don't wait until the last minute to discuss the logistics of the move. Begin talking about their plans a few weeks in advance. This allows for a gradual mental shift and reduces last-minute stress.

• Acknowledge Their Feelings: Encourage your young adult to express their feelings about leaving. Validate their excitement, but also acknowledge any anxieties or concerns they might have. Let them know it's okay to feel a mix of emotions.

• Help with Practical Preparations: Offer your assistance with practical tasks, such as packing, organizing their belongings, and making travel arrangements. This shows your support and reduces their burden. Remember those late summer sales on dorm supplies!

• Discuss Health and Well-being: As the school year starts, it's a good time to have a conversation about their physical and mental well-being. Remind them of the importance of healthy eating, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep, even amidst the excitement of college life. Discuss resources available to them on campus, such as health services and counseling centers.

• Plan a Meaningful Farewell: Instead of a rushed goodbye, plan a meaningful send-off. This could be a special dinner, a fun activity, or simply spending some quality time together before they leave. Create a positive and loving memory to carry with them.

• Establish Communication Patterns: Discuss how you'll stay in touch once they're back at school. Will it be regular phone calls, video chats, or text messages? Setting expectations can help both of you feel connected and supported.

• Focus on the Positive: While it's natural to feel a bit sad, try to focus on the positive aspects of their return to college. Remind them of the opportunities they have to learn, grow, and connect with others. Express your pride in their accomplishments and your excitement for their future.

• Give Them Space (But Stay Connected): Once they're back on campus, give them some space to adjust to their new routine. However, let them know you're always there for them if they need support. A simple text message or a quick phone call can go a long way.

• Remember Your Own Needs: As you support your young adult, don't forget to take care of yourself. This is also a time of transition for you. Engage in activities you enjoy, connect with friends, and allow yourself time to adjust to their absence.

  
  

Sending your young adult back to college is a bittersweet moment, a reminder of their growing independence and the ever-evolving nature of your relationship. By approaching this transition with open communication, practical support, and a focus on maintaining a strong connection, you can help them navigate this chapter with confidence and ease, while also taking care of your own emotional well-being.

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Reference:

Feldman, R. S., & Backscheider, A. G. (2016). Transitions through the lifespan. McGraw-Hill Education.