It’s hard to fathom that the time has finally come for you to set off for college. Your father and I have spent nearly two decades preparing you for this moment, yet it feels bittersweet to see you go. I’ve cherished every moment of guiding you through your early years.
While I’m thrilled to watch you embark on this exciting new journey, I can’t help but think about the space you’ll leave behind. I’ll miss the friends who would crowd our living room, turning our home into a makeshift hangout, devouring snacks like they were training for an eating competition. Honestly, with all the food they consumed, I could have charged them more than a hotel on a busy weekend.
I’ll also miss those sleepless nights spent worrying about you after you missed curfew. Checking my phone every few minutes for updates became a routine. You’ve given me countless moments of heart-stopping excitement over the years, from your late-night escapades to your questionable decisions, like trying to convince me that speeding through a school zone was a good idea. If it weren’t for those experiences, I might never have realized how effective blonde dye is at covering up gray hairs.
You’ve kept me on my toes, especially when it comes to household chores. The bathroom algae, the mystery smells from under your bed, and the never-ending pile of laundry have all been character-building experiences for me. Now that you’re leaving, I might just turn our empty nest into an alpaca farm — who knows?
Before the chaos of move-in day begins, here are some key pieces of advice:
Eat Well.
Make sure to hit the salad bar more than once a week to balance out all the burgers, pizza, and wings you’ll inevitably consume. Stock up on peanut butter and bread, just in case the cafeteria’s special is something unappetizing like calf liver.
Prioritize Hygiene.
Please don’t skimp on showers or rely solely on body spray to mask any odors. Antibacterial soap exists for a reason! And keep Q-tips handy; trust me, no one wants to notice that you’ve been growing potatoes in your ears. Remember to brush and floss too — your teeth shouldn’t feel like they’re wearing sweaters! Also, trim those toenails; unless you’re planning on joining a fellowship of hobbits, they shouldn’t look like a jungle.
Be Considerate.
Respect the campus noise regulations and keep your music at a reasonable volume. Even if your speakers are huge, it doesn’t mean you should blast tunes loud enough to rattle the windows. And remember, while you might have a Viking-sized appetite, participating in every eating contest won’t win you any friends — especially if beans are involved!
Take Relationships Seriously.
While abstinence is the safest option, if you choose to be intimate, remember to use protection properly — no balloon animals, please.
Don’t Give in to Peer Pressure.
Just because your friends dare you to do something ridiculous doesn’t mean you should. Trust me, chugging hot sauce won’t make you the life of the party; instead, you might just become the guy who spent hours in the restroom.
Practice Gratitude.
Whether your friends are cruising in flashy cars or you’re in an older model, appreciate what you have. Remember, it’s not about the vehicle; it’s about the journey.
Manage Your Finances.
If you find yourself spending more on drinks than on tuition, it’s time to reevaluate your priorities.
Keep Your Space Clean.
Please empty the trash regularly and don’t let leftover pizza turn your room into an insect buffet. If your bathroom resembles a science experiment gone wrong, it’s time for a serious cleaning session.
Stay Focused on Academics.
Study first; then party. Otherwise, you might find yourself struggling to keep up.
Enjoy Your Freedom.
Take your time exploring relationships. Don’t rush into anything too serious. It’s all about finding the right person, not just the prettiest face.
Always Be Prepared.
Stock up on Gatorade, aspirin, and snacks — your future hangover self will thank you. And don’t forget a pillow; you never know where the night might take you.
Avoid Recklessness.
If you decide to partake in any wild stunts, remember that I won’t be there to bail you out. It’s all fun and games until someone ends up in trouble.
Cherish Your True Friends.
These are the ones who will help you out of sticky situations and keep your secrets safe, no matter how embarrassing they might be.
Maintain Your Sense of Humor.
When your roommates prank you, take it in stride. Laughter is the best medicine, especially when dealing with college antics.
Your father and I couldn’t be prouder as we watch you take on this new chapter in life. We love you deeply and believe in your abilities. Just remember, if you ever find yourself in a bind, call your siblings for help — we may be off living our own adventures!
For more guidance on navigating this exciting transition, you might find helpful insights in our other blog posts, like this one, or check out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination. You can even find some great tools for your journey, like this one that can be super useful.
Summary:
As your college adventure begins, remember to maintain good health and hygiene, be respectful to others, manage your finances wisely, and cherish friendships. Embrace the freedom of college life while keeping your priorities straight. Always have a sense of humor, and don’t hesitate to seek assistance when needed. Your parents are cheering for you from afar, ready for their next adventure!