So much of the college experience is about balance. Students work at learning to balance social life and studying, independence and responsibility, seriousness and frivolity. As parents, it is sometimes difficult to watch as our students practice the skill of balance – and sometimes fail. But just as we had to finally take the training wheels off and let go of the bicycle, we need to step back and watch as our students take off.

Talking about drinking need not be taboo. “Detoxify” the topic. You can assume that your student has experience with high-risk drinking situations. Even if your college age child doesn’t drink, they most likely know people who do and/or they have been offered alcohol.

Loneliness is something that a lot of college students struggle with. Many students have expectations when arriving at college that it is going to be the best time of their lives and that they will instantly have tons of friends. However, the reality is that in college, it can sometimes be quite difficult to make friends, and it often feels like everyone already has a friend group. Here are some stories from college students on how they overcame loneliness and some advice to help get through it.

The smell of his cologne swirled through the air and traveled down the stairs a few minutes before my son physically did. It was a tip off that he was about to head out the door to meet up with his friends for the night.

You may be wondering if your student or new grad has any chance of finding a job right now. With the right tools, they undoubtedly will! Students at Missouri S&T have an amazing resource at Career Opportunities and Employer Relations which not only helps connect students with employers through Handshake, but assists with resumes, interview skills, professional etiquette, and even business attire.