Student Stress: Preparing for College & Managing Stress

Written by Nichole Cleland-Bittner

There are many stepping stones along the parent’s path, and while many of these milestones started at birth, I have noticed the ones towards the end of the parenting journey are some of the hardest and most stressful. I have been working in education and after-school programs for years and have seen what I like to call the senior year panic. It’s a really special time in life when parents and students alike are trying to make the big life transition from high school to college. Whether you are a local student, a first-generation college student, or an international student, everyone comes with their own special forms of stress. So, let’s talk about that little gremlin called “stress” and what we can do about it and how to make sure our students know how to handle it.

Here are 10 things that I have found that give us an edge on stress.

1. Make a Plan: Sit down together and figure it out. Write it down, connect your calendars, and make a to-do list. Here is a link to a checklist to assist you.
2. Ask Questions: I cannot stress this enough. It’s better to get confirmation on what you already know rather than leave yourself wondering if you’re right. Stress increases in the unknown, so ask.
3. Take a Walk: We have all heard this by now, but taking walks relieves stress. Take a walk with your student and see where they are. Ask them how they’re feeling about it all. A 20-minute walk can make a huge difference in overall health as a benefit.
4. Use your Village: Community support goes a really long way. Whatever community you are already a part of, reach out, ask them questions, and talk to people who have already been there. If your student is involved in sports, drama, or student government, start looking into places where they can continue that village in college.
5. Know your Kid: Your child will be the same as they always have been. If your student is one to touch their toe into the pool before jumping in, that will continue in college. If your child jumps in the deep end before thinking, they will do that in college. Encourage them to create a routine and try new things, but also know that if you push when you shouldn’t, it will create more stress.