Summer is just ahead! No doubt you have already started the conversation with your student about what they will do with the upcoming summer.
For many, it will be the first time in nine months that you will be living together under one roof for an extended period of time. There may be a time of readjustment.
Remember that your student will have spent the past nine months living independently and making many decisions without you. Your life may have not changed much over the past months, but his/hers has. It will be important to review expectations, both yours and his/hers.
Here are some expectations you may want to discuss:
Communication?
Curfew?
Household responsibilities?
Sharing a car?
What about laundry?
What to do with all that free time: If your student is still trying to decide what to do with the summer, here are some questions to help them think through. Assist them in laying out all of the options and then encourage them to identify what needs to be accomplished this summer.
Here are some of the questions, your student may be considering:
Should I just relax and rest up for next fall?
Should I get a job?
If so, should I get one where I can make the most money or one that might help with building my resume. Can I find one that will do both?
Should I do an internship or volunteer where I don’t make as much money, or any money, but I get good experience?
Should I spend the summer doing research with a faculty member?
Should I travel and broaden my perspectives or just travel for fun?
Winds of change: Also find time to learn more about the “A” -dult your student is becoming. Talk with them about what they have learned about people over the past months. How does your son or daughter think they have changed? What relationships does he/she want to build with high school friends? How will your family adjust to an emerging adult in the family. It is a time of self-authorship for students yet, they continue to need and value your input.
Most of all enjoy the summertime together. Enjoy the conversations and have some fun together.
It’s only three short months to September!
Laura Majovski, Ph.D.
VP for Admission and Student Life
