He’s been ready for this since before high school graduation – actually since he received his acceptance letter. My son is finally going off to college in a matter of days, a little over two weeks. His classes are scheduled, he’s been to campus to ‘walk his schedule’ – all that’s left is to start going to class, which he started today!
Like any other student on the first day, it was ‘fine’ and not much more. He did have stories about meeting new people, liking his professors, but being frustrated with a couple of the ‘basic’ classes he was placed in. Math is boring because it’s stuff he learned at his more accelerated private high school. Another class about critical thinking and other skills needed in the college classroom is also boring because, once again, it’s something he was exposed to constantly throughout his K-12 schooling. After an initial bump with his laptop malfunctioning, he’s switched to the iPad he’s used throughout high school that he was able to take away with him. Such a lifesaver! And now it’s his primary device during classes.
But as the week went on, he began to enjoy his classes more. He’s met students who have come long distances and are a little homesick – and reached out to them to comfort and make them laugh. Since he’s not living on campus, his biggest gripe is the traffic to and from school.
He has found his element. While he’s never struggled socially much in school, he has had his ups and downs academically. I don’t think this will be the case any longer. He enjoys class, enjoys what he’s learning, and comes home every day and dives right into homework with little need for help. He’s clicking with people older than him as well as those his age.
I wish him all the best as he learns and grows and truly sets his own path for the rest of his life. Oh, and his favorite thing: NO MORE UNIFORMS!!!!
If you went to college, what was your freshman year like? Did you find friends and activities to enjoy? Do you have friends you met you’re still in touch with today? Let’s talk on Facebook!