Ronica,

I am just about to finish my freshman year of college. I am concerned about being away from my friends for the summer and moving back in with my parents. Can you give me some advice on how to adjust?

-Changing Times

Changing Times,

The end of your first year of school can be a difficult time. Everything that you have finally adjusted to is about to change again. Use these tips to help you get through the transition and summer months ahead:

It is only for the summer. The amount of time you will be away from college friends is only about 3 months. The time will go quickly and you’ll be back at school in no time. Enjoy the months away from stressful classes and take time to re-grow friendships with high school friends that may have faded during your first year at school.

Make a pact. Keep your college friends close by sitting down at the end of the year and creating a list of times and ways to stay in touch. Promising to call every Sunday night, writing emails with daily updates or using an instant messenger program are all ideal ways to give your friends up-to-the-minute details on your summer life. While they seem obvious, it can be easy to forget to do these simple things once you get home. By talking about the ways that will work best for you and your friends to stay in touch, you will be more motivated and excited to actually do so.

Talk to your parents. Moving back home after living on your own can be a difficult adjustment. But remember, it is an adjustment for your parents as well. During your years in college, your house will keep changing every few months with you away at school, home and away again. This constant change can be difficult for everyone involved. At the start of the summer, talk to your parents about the rules they expect you to follow when living in their home. This will help avoid any major fights and problems as the summer progresses. If the restrictions seem too limiting, talk to them and explain why you feel the way you do. Showing maturity during this discussion will help make your case. Remember, there may be some rules they will ultimately not be willing to bend or change.

Take a trip. Talk with your college friends about taking a trip together during the summer. This will motivate you to keep that summer job and save. You can take a big trip or a weekend visit. No matter what size vacation you decide to take, the planning will be a fun way to keep communicating during the summer months.

I hope these simple tips help you prepare for the changing months ahead. Have some tips I didn’t mention? Feel free to post a comment or email me at AskRonica@Gmail.com