Every year, I find myself saying “summer has never gone by this fast before!” and every year, I’m convinced that this is the year I really mean that. Yesterday, President Scogin gave his beginning of the year talk to all the professors and faculty. Today as I’m writing, freshmen are getting moved into their dorms. At this time of year, I can’t help but think of the incoming students and their parents, each in the midst of their own life transition. I feel so deeply for myself back then, and for every person stepping onto our campus today. So here’s a few words of encouragement and advice for you.
Words For Students:
In the first few weeks of school, my biggest advice is for you to be patient and have grace! I remember feeling like things would always be like this: I’d always be this homesick, I’d always get lost on campus, and I’d always feel lonely. Try to remember, as best you can, that this is just a season. As the weeks go by, you will get into a rhythm and things will begin to feel easier. In the meantime, try to be patient. You only have to move in as a freshman in college one time! You can do this! Take it day by day, minute by minute if you need to. And don’t be afraid to ask for help, call your mom, or take a break when you feel overwhelmed.
Words For Parents:
I, of course, have never sent a kid to college. Still, I can imagine the anxiety that comes with their newfound independence. If it’s any encouragement to you, I want to say that the faculty and mentors I’ve found at Hope have served me, cooked me dinner, and invited me over. People will care for your kid, truly, and maybe even give them home-cooked meals from time to time. Hope is truly a great place to be, and in time your kid will be thriving here. It’s just an adjustment period… so again, have grace and patience.
Throughout my first year and even still, my family would send me mail or postcards. I work in the mailroom now, and I see lots of similar mail coming through. If you’re missing your kid a little extra, I would recommend doing the same. It will make their day to get an email from Campus Print and Mail that they have something unexpected to come pick up– especially when it’s a handwritten note or card.
This will be a tough transition, yes, but also a beautiful one: watching your kid thrive and grow in a new place.
Words for Everyone:
When I moved in, my mom marked Isaiah 43 and 44 in my Bible. These words guided me through the transition of feeling alone in a new place. In preparation for the beginning of my junior year, I’ve once again come back to these chapters and written out verses as a reminder for myself. For parents and for students, I think these words could serve as an encouragement as we look ahead and trust God to walk with us through the unknowns of this next season.
But now, this is what the Lord says — he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
Isaiah 43:1-2 NIV
I hope that you carry these words with you. I’m praying for you, all of you, amidst this transition!