Parents of the HS Class of 2024 (Part 2)

[Luanne]

That is every parent’s nightmare! I’m so sorry you had to live it. I’m glad he will recover fully.

[sarahbrown24]

I’m so glad that he’s OK! I’m sure everyone here relates to it, and a real silver lining is that everyone learns from this situation and hopefully he does better in the future. Sending virtual hugs!

[jthree]

@southernfemmom

Today is Mountain Day at Smith College and I am reflecting on how much better my D24 is doing now than when she was a brand new Firstie. Don’t get me wrong, she loved Smith from the start and had a wonderful first year experience, but at this point a year ago, she was still trying to find her place, navigate new friendships, get a solid understanding of the academics and all the other new things, like finding a favorite coffee shop, navigating dining halls, etc. Last year on Mountain Day she did an activity with her house and then read a book by Paradise Pond. She had a nice day, but it was not everything she dreamed of. Today, she did a little hike/walk with friends and is on her way to an orchard with a big group and plans to bake with friends in the afternoon. In her second year, she has several different friend groups, is involved in numerous organizations,is building strong relationships with professors, and just really thriving. I feel like Sophomore year can be really magical. College is still new and exciting, but the students are more settled and confident.

As a parent of 2025 lurking on this thread, thank you for sharing this- my D25 is a firstie so this was good to hear. That description of first year rings true- she is enjoying it but still finding her footing with classmates, schoolwork, etc. Just the day before we had a heart-to-heart talk about some of the stresses she’s had. Overall, she’s doing ok but I am looking forward to the more settled, confident sophomore phase!