What Does Thanksgiving Mean to ME?
Turkey, mashed and sweet potatoes, and stuffing? High school football games? A house full of energy and happiness.
T-Day is a time to take stock and give thanks for our blessings, gifts, and those in our lives. Wishing everyone joy and excitement, not just on Thanksgiving, but every day throughout the year.
Thanksgiving is the first significant break in the action for college and career students, especially first-year students who arrive home after leaving in September. As the father of four, I can report that the break can be an interesting time for parents and returning students. We are anxious to learn everything, while students are interested in the three R’s: refueling, reconnecting, and recharging their batteries. They can be talkative or quiet.
Parents do not despair.
Remember, they’re on break when you pick them up. I recall how challenging it was to resist asking them about their classes, friends, and activities. Most rides quickly became quiet as they fell asleep (three out of four), and I listened to smooth jazz.
The moment will come when it’s time to ask questions and dig into how campus life is going—and if there are potential bumps in the road. As parents, we must listen for signs and be patient. Please send them to the T-Day football game and feed them. Then, inquire about the first semester. If they’re struggling, let them know it’s normal, but encourage them to consult with academic support, resident life, and explore options for joining a club or organization to get involved. Thanksgiving is a bit past the midpoint of the semester. Your student has three weeks to “crush it” before the end of the semester and Christmas break. Address things now.
For high school students and their families, Thanksgiving marks a significant milestone in the college planning calendar.
- By now, seniors (families) should have submitted 99% of their admission applications and the FAFSA (maybe CSS Profile). Their eyes should be on watching college portals and emails for information, as well as searching for scholarships.
- If students are undecided, the break can be a perfect time to discuss the next steps. No one path after high school fits everyone, even if that’s what you hear (feel). Work, community college, service, apprenticeship, and a structured gap year are all effective options.
- Juniors (and 10th graders), it’s time to turn up the heat on your college planning, including creating a resume, thinking about living in a dorm, and how big is too big (campus), and where do you draw the line on distance from home. Come January, you’re building a list, learning how to evaluate options, and where to visit during February school break.
- Upper-class college students need to be focusing on checking their timeline and credit requirements to graduate on time. Five and six enrollment timelines are very expensive.
- Graduated or graduating soon, it is time to planning as student loan grace periods are about to expire and loan repayment begins on Federal and private education loans.
- Parents, yes, there is a lot to talk as you continue to coach and guide your high school, college-age and working young adults.
Thanksgiving break is an exciting and busy period, but a time stay ahead of pressing deadlines and tasks.
Wishing all a very Happy Thanksgiving.
