... And other important people involved with the life of a college student.

For some people, this is the first time that you have had to say good-bye (for more than an overnight) to your loved one. There are many issues that may come up for you during this time.

Your roles as a parent have changed over the years:

When they were born they were these perfect little images of you and your partner. They depended on you 100%. Sure you were tired a lot, but you were there for them for every possible need. As they grew, they learned to connect with others, and couldn't wait to tell you about their day.

Through adolescence their peers ruled the world. The opinions and comments of those their age had a great impact on them. At the end of the week you may have time to catch up with their escapades (if they needed to go to the mall or needed money you could always count on them to count on you...You have become a human ATM machine).

High School may provide opportunities that your child may not have dreamed of before. It is so big, and there are kids from all over town for them to meet. Some have part-time jobs after school, or participate in sports, the band or other activities. Now they want to borrow the car (sans parent), and you give them the keys with hesitation. You are beginning to see them as separate from you, and it may be scary. You should feel proud, you have done a great job with the most important action of one's life. You have created a new consciousness that will go out there into the world and do something spectacular.

Now they are off to college and you may be feeling a little lousy. This may be because you need to let go. This process of letting go may not seem appealing, but it is extremely important for both you and your student.

Some of you did not have the opportunity to go to college. There may be a lot of changes that you will witness in your child. Sometimes it can be confusing, but try to remember that this may be the first time that someone that you care very deeply for, is 100% responsible for their actions. Their teachers won't be reminding them that when their assignments are due, or call them up if they miss class, and they may not even know all the names of the students in class (depending on the size and type of class). Your student is now going to need to remind themselves...

...But enough about them.

Check out this Parent Guide for some reality of what is to come. This time in your child's life is scary for you as it is for them. It is also a time of enjoyment. Congratulate yourself for raising these new adults.

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