The article emphasizes the evolving nature of college experiences today compared to the past, urging parents to adapt their expectations. Through interviews with students and parents, it highlights the importance of understanding that each child's college journey is unique, shaped by current societal and educational changes. Parents are encouraged to provide emotional support while refraining from imposing their own nostalgic experiences on their children. By acknowledging these differences, parents can foster better relationships and help their children thrive in a modern academic environment.
The biggest thing that parents need to understand about college today is that their child's experience is going to be completely different from their own! My parents went to a tiny liberal arts school in rural Vermont in the late 80s, so our experiences were really different, particularly when it came to forming relationships with professors. I think parents just need to acknowledge that different doesn't always mean worse, and that all their child really needs is their support, not necessarily for them to relate to all of their experiences.
There are so many great things from my college years that I wish Sarah could have or do. And I suppose there are an equal number of things I'm relieved she can avoid. But I notice as I get older how my nostalgia for those days grows, and I want to be careful not to put that on her.
One piece of advice I would give to parents is to understand that college isn't just a continuation of high school. It's a time for your student to find their own identity, explore diverse perspectives, and develop life skills, independent from parental guidance.
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