15 Pieces of Advice Parents Often Forget to Share Before Their Kids Head to College
Sending your child off to college is a bittersweet moment. As they take the next step into adulthood, there are things you may wish you had said or talked about before the big departure.
These moments are precious, and the advice you give now can shape their future decisions, well-being, and sense of self. Here are 15 things you’ll likely wish you had said before your kids went off to college, helping to prepare them for the challenges and excitement ahead.
“Don’t Forget to Ask for Help When You Need It”
College can be overwhelming, and it’s easy for students to feel isolated when they’re struggling. Encouraging them to reach out when they need support—whether academically or emotionally—can make all the difference.
Remind them that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that there are always resources available.
“Take Care of Your Health, Both Mentally and Physically”
Many teens think they are invincible, but it’s crucial for them to maintain a healthy balance. Remind your child to prioritize sleep, exercise, and proper nutrition.
Equally important is mental health—let them know it’s okay to take breaks, seek counseling, or talk through challenges. Their well-being should always come first.
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“You Don’t Have to Have Everything Figured Out Right Now”
The pressure to know exactly what they want to do in life can be intense. Reassure them that it’s okay to explore different interests and change paths if needed.
College is a time of growth and self-discovery, and not having everything figured out is perfectly fine.
“Stay True to Your Values, Even When It's Hard”
College is a place full of new ideas, people, and experiences, some of which may challenge their beliefs. Encourage your child to stay grounded in their core values, even if others might try to sway them. Empower them to be confident in who they are, even when faced with peer pressure.
“Manage Your Time Wisely—Procrastination Will Catch Up With You”
The freedom that comes with college life can be liberating, but it also requires discipline. Remind them that time management is key to staying on top of assignments, exams, and social commitments.
A little planning each day can help avoid the stress that comes with last-minute cramming or missed deadlines.
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“It’s Okay to Make Mistakes, Just Learn From Them”
Tell your child that mistakes are a part of life, and college is a safe place to make them. Emphasize the importance of learning from those mistakes, rather than letting them define them.
Encourage resilience and self-forgiveness—they will encounter challenges, but how they respond will shape their future.
“Your Relationships with Friends Will Change—That’s Okay”
Going to college often changes the dynamic of friendships. Some relationships will evolve, while others may fade.
Let them know that it’s natural for relationships to shift, and that new connections will be made. It’s important to stay open to growth and allow themselves to meet new people.
“Don’t Forget to Ask About Financial Aid and Your Budget”
Money management is a vital skill, especially when they’re responsible for managing their own finances. Encourage them to keep track of their spending and to be proactive about understanding their financial aid, scholarships, or student loans.
Financial literacy is key to avoiding debt and stress down the road.
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“Take Time to Explore and Have Fun—College is More Than Just Studying”
While academics are important, remind them that college is also about personal growth, meeting new people, and exploring new interests. Encourage them to get involved in activities outside of the classroom—whether it’s joining clubs, attending events, or just exploring the campus.
“Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help If You’re Feeling Overwhelmed”
Even though they may be independent, it’s vital that your child knows how to ask for help when life becomes overwhelming. Whether it's academic stress, relationship issues, or emotional struggles, support is available. Let them know that seeking help is a sign of maturity, not weakness.
“Network and Build Relationships with Professors and Mentors”
College is a great opportunity to build relationships with professors, academic advisors, and mentors. These connections can provide guidance, job opportunities, and support throughout their academic and professional journey.
Encourage them to take the initiative in these relationships, as they can be incredibly valuable in the long term.
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“Set Boundaries and Learn to Say No”
The demands of socializing, studying, and extracurricular activities can quickly pile up. Help them understand the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing what’s most important.
Learning to say no is a key skill that will help them maintain their mental health and avoid burnout.
“Don’t Be Afraid to Reach Out to Your Family—We’re Always Here”
Let them know that they can always count on their family for support, no matter how far away they are. Reassure them that even though they may be physically distant, you are always there to listen and offer guidance.
Regular communication can ease the transition and provide them with a strong support system.
“Don’t Compare Yourself to Others—Everyone Has Their Own Path”
It’s easy to get caught up in comparing oneself to others, especially in the competitive environment of college. Remind them that everyone is on their own journey.
Comparing achievements or experiences can lead to unnecessary stress. Encourage them to focus on their own goals and progress.
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“Be Open to New Experiences—You’ll Never Know What You’ll Discover About Yourself”
College is a time of self-discovery. Encourage them to step outside their comfort zone, try new things, and meet people who challenge their perspectives.
These experiences, though sometimes uncomfortable, will help shape who they become and broaden their horizons.
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