How to advise your high school kid when they pick a school because friends might go there?

Agree with everyone to let it play out.

BUT-- I think it’s important for all of us to communicate to our kids that we know they are resilient, that they can handle challenging situations, that they can get thrown in the deep end of the pool and come back to the surface.

One of my kids was not as adaptable? Maybe that’s the best way to describe it. Harder time with transitions, harder time “not knowing anyone”. Did NOT take the safe choice for college (where the besties were going, and where if you count “friends of friends” there was already a village in place. ) Definitely picked the right academic fit— but was a little wobbly on the social fit.

It took time- but it was fabulous once it all came together. I made a lot of mistakes with this kid- I admit it- but the one thing I think we got right was a quiet “you can do this” which never wavered. There was one tearful phone call right before classes started freshman year and even though my heart was breaking, I stuck to the script. “You can do this. It’s ok not to have friends immediately. You are homesick right now but it will pass. You picked this college for so many fantastic reasons-- once classes start you will remember those reasons. We are so proud of you and confident you can figure this out”.

And it worked… So yes, your D needs to decide. But make sure you are regularly telling her that you know she can tough it out even if things are rocky.

Trip to Europe sounds like a great experience!!!

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