10 Ways to Know If You Have a College Freshman

Written by Lisa Bleich

Are you experiencing a whirlwind of emotions as your child embarks on their college journey? Here are 10 telltale signs that you have a college freshman:

Frequent Post Office Visits

If you find yourself making multiple trips to the post office every week to send forgotten items like “black flats” or a “graphing calculator” to your child, you’re definitely in the college parent club.

Morning Longing

Do you have that empty feeling in your stomach when you wake up and realize your child isn’t there? It’s a common symptom of empty nest syndrome, especially prevalent among parents of college freshmen.

Text Message Anticipation

Your phone has become an extension of your hand as you anxiously await text messages from your child. The rush of excitement you feel when their message finally arrives, complete with pictures, is unparalleled.

Room Inspection

Peeking into your child’s empty room, you can’t help but wonder how it’s still as messy as ever now that they’re away at college. The nostalgia hits hard as you remember the chaotic yet comforting presence of your freshman.

Morning Melancholy

As you drop off your younger child at their activities in the morning, you suddenly feel a wave of sadness wash over you for no apparent reason. The absence of your college freshman leaves a palpable void.

Seeking Updates

Resorting to reaching out to other parents from your child’s school in hopes of hearing any news about your freshman. The radio silence since they left has left you craving any snippet of information.

City News Enthusiasm

Suddenly, you find yourself avidly following the weather report and any news from the city surrounding your child’s college. Every update feels like a connection to their new life away from home.

Budgeting Woes

Each month, as you reluctantly open the college tuition bill, you can’t help but cringe at the hefty expense. The sacrifices you make for your child’s education are evident, but the financial strain is real.

Grocery Store Realizations

While shopping, you absentmindedly reach for your child’s favorite snacks or meals, only to remember that they’re not home to enjoy them anymore. It’s a bittersweet reminder of their absence.

Hopeful Anticipation

Despite the rollercoaster of emotions, you remain excited and hopeful for your child’s journey ahead. You eagerly anticipate the experiences and growth they’ll undergo during their first year of college.

How to Cope When You Have a College Freshman Away From Home

Transitioning to having a child in college can be challenging, but there are several strategies to help parents cope with this new chapter.

Firstly, maintaining open communication with your child can provide a sense of connection and reassurance amidst the distance. Setting aside regular times for phone calls or video chats can help bridge the gap.

Additionally, focusing on self-care is essential. Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, whether it’s pursuing a hobby, spending time with loved ones, or practicing mindfulness techniques.

Embracing this newfound freedom by exploring new interests or hobbies can also help shift the focus from the empty nest to personal growth.

Lastly, seek support from other parents who are going through similar experiences. Joining parent support groups or attending workshops can provide valuable insights and a sense of community during this transitional period.

Remember, it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions, but with time and patience, you can adapt to this new phase of parenthood and continue to support your child on their journey to independence.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning into the role of a parent of a college freshman is undoubtedly a bittersweet experience. Embrace the journey, cherish the moments, and celebrate the milestones along the way. After all, watching your child spread their wings and soar into adulthood is the ultimate reward.