Living On Campus

Living on campus is a rights of passage that no student (or parent) should be denied. How many of us, talk about the horrors of living on campus and what a great time we actually had? How many of us learned valuable relationship lessons, living with a roommate from hell?

When I look back on the first move in day for my college freshman, I cannot help but smile although at the time, it was one of the toughest days of my life! I had already been through 2 years of boarding school with my son, since I lived overseas, so I thought I would be prepared for this day... Nothing prepares you for this day unless you have an older child that has survived a freshman move in day.

As I sat in the lobby of his dorm, waiting for the 5pm distribution of the dorm room keys, the parents were as interesting to watch as the students. It was the parents that were in horror of the small rooms and shared baths. The kids were just excited to get that day behind them and get on with the college experience.

The college campus is the safest place for your student. The crime rates on college campuses are way below the national average. Yes, we have seen an increase of violence but the statistics still support that college campuses are safe. I firmly believe that students should be on campus where they need to be involved.

I also believe that students do not need a car at least for the first 2 years. A car takes the student off campus. If your student does have a car, I guarantee you there are many students that will not. Your student will often find themselves being the chauffeur.

Remember all students pay an activity fee. Encourage your student to take full advantage of what is offered on campus. Free time can be filled with a part time job (on campus), recreational sports, volunteer opportunities and there is always the fall back, using the time to study!

Dr. Debi Yohn
Counseling Psychologist
President/Founder of CollegeWorks101.com

Posted on MyCollegeCalendar.org – 9/19/08