One of the fun and interesting things that came out of returning to college was sharing the experience with my oldest daughter. As I have mentioned earlier, I have a 20-year-old daughter, Briana, who is 6 hours away at college. We have always been close, but sharing this experience has brought us even closer.
I guess it only makes sense, but Briana and I have very similar interests and aptitudes. She loves to argue (and is good at it!). She’s very good at influencing (and manipulating) people. She tends to take a leadership role. She loves history and she’s a great writer.
All of this has added up to a perfect fit for both of us. If I run into something that I’m either not familiar with or don’t understand, Briana is the first one I call. If either of us needs a proof-reader, we don’t have to hunt to find someone we trust with the job. When Briana needs advice on dealing with her sorority sisters or roommates, I am there to share my experience. Most importantly, we can each learn from the other’s mistakes, without having to make them ourselves.
Here’s the best part. A lot of parents I know have a hard time finding something to talk about with their teenage/college-age children. I never, ever have that problem. Briana and I talk almost every day and don’t have to worry about running out of topics – Studies, instructors, work, relationships, career planning – We have an endless list.
I know that not everyone returning to college has college-age children to share this experience. If you do, don’t smother them, but don’t miss the opportunity to make the most of it.
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