You've prepared for this moment for years. Your child is off to college for the first time. What advice do you give them for that first day and why should all kids take note? I posed this question to moms around the United States. Do you agree with them? Have more advice?
"Don't forget the reason you are there and your future goals. It's easy to get sidetracked at college. Make education first, fun second!" - Tania, Plantation, Fla.
"Pay attention and make sure to get all of the handouts from your teachers. So many times all of your questions will be answered in those first few days if you pay attention." - Tracy, Petal, Miss.
"The day you get your course syllabus from each of your instructors, put the important assignment deadlines in a scheduling calendar. Then, begin to plan the short term deadlines you need to meet in order to complete any long range assignments like term papers. This will save you needless frustration and anxiety in the weeks to come. You may even be ahead of the game among your classmates." - Sandy, Two Harbors, Minn.
"I will tell my children to give it their best shot. If they don't make straight A's, it's ok as long as they are trying their best. I think this is important because it takes away the stress of knowing just that they are trying, they will not let their parents down."- Stephanie, Milford, Maine
"Be true to yourself and your goals, even if they differ from what I want for you. Don't be afraid to try new things. I'll love you no matter what, but I'd like to continue to like you as well. I think my son might need to hear this because he often holds back from trying new things in fear of what other people might think of him. I want him to remember his childhood lessons and have respect for himself, but not be afraid to venture outside what he already knows." -Kathy, Hamlet, Ind.
"I cautioned them to enjoy their freedom but not go overboard. I think that the immediate and total freedom they get is one of the biggest reasons kids fail." - Cherri, El Cajon, Calif.
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