5 Ways to Show A First-Time College Student That You're Proud Of Them

When your loved one is first entering college, you want them to have an amazing time. The only problem? Transitioning into adulting can be hard.

The coursework. The laundry. The sleep deprivation. And the obnoxious roommates and dorm mates. With so many stressors hitting them at once, even the most independent freshman can start to feel overwhelmed and isolated. Is it any wonder that 91% of American college students report feeling average to above average levels of stress? This is why it’s so important for you to look for ways to shower the college student in your life with your love and support.

Whether you live near or far from your favorite first-time college student, you can “be there” for them in spirit. Just a few simple actions can say, “You got this” and “I’m proud of you.”

Text Them Regularly

This is the first time in human history when it’s been possible to contact people in real time, no matter where they are through a text message. Even if you rarely get a text in return from your student, stay in touch. A lot of freshmen won’t write back instantly (or at all) when their parents, siblings, or friends say hi. Though you may feel offended, it’s not something you need to take personally. Nine times out of ten, they’re not giving you a brush-off. Their silence is often the result of a hectic schedule rather than a desire to deliberately ghost you.

Of course, be measured about the volume and frequency of your text communications. If you’re texting your student all the time, you’re not doing them a favor. Be judicious and text occasionally. Aim to make them smile — or at least smirk. And save topics that are heavy for a phone call or video visit.

Send A Care Package

Most residential colleges will assign students mailboxes. Find out your student’s address and surprise them with a care package. Plenty of businesses offer college-themed care package options. And if you really want to make a splash, pick a package that includes food. (College dining isn’t exactly known for its awesomeness.)

For instance, Spoonful of Comfort sells a specially arranged ultimate college care package that includes everything from snackables and sweets to soups and socks. It’s basically all the coziness, comfort, and culinary goodness of home in a beautifully arranged box. In a few clicks, you can nourish the student you miss, as well as nourish your relationship. Plus, you can make it possible for your student to share some nibbles with newly made college friends.

Print & Send A Few Pics

Sure, it’s quick and painless to share a digital image. But every so often, make actual real-life prints of some of the pictures on your device. Then, send those pics to your college student to remind them of fun times and memories. Bonus points if you make copies of at least one picture from several years ago.

If you don’t feel like leaving your house, you’ll be happy to hear you don’t have to. There are plenty of websites where you can make quality printed copies of your pics that can be sent anywhere. And after you upload everything, you may even want to create a personalized product featuring the photo. Who knows? Your product could become a one-of-a-kind keepsake, and would certainly be a dorm room conversation starter.

Pay For Extras

College students tend to be strapped for cash. Though pinching pennies is a good learning experience, it can make life rough. That’s where you can give a monetary assist.

Every now and then, pick up a small gift card for a restaurant, coffee shop, retailer, or service that you know your student will use. Either give the card to the student the next time you two meet up in person, or drop the gift card in the mail as a “here, pamper yourself” surprise. Alternatively, you could pay for an e-card and send it to the student’s email or phone. Picking up the tab is a thoughtful gesture on your part that will always be meaningful.

Cheer Their Self-Discoveries

College campuses aren’t just places for academic exploration. They’re places for personal growth, too. Older teens and 20-somethings who enter college frequently make changes as part of their journey into maturity. And you might be surprised by the changes that you see.

However, as long as those changes are positive, avoid being judgmental. Instead, give them room to try new things and find deeper meaning. This can be tough, particularly if you haven’t prepared yourself for the possibility that your child, brother, sister, or friend could take on a different persona. Yet it’s a very normal reality when a young person goes to college.

It can feel a little strange when your loved one goes off to college. But you can keep your ties strong. All you have to do is take a few steps to show them that no matter where they are, you’re still their proudest fan.

BDG Media newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.