Tips for a smooth transition home this summer
Melanie Tromp
After eight months of relative freedom, many UVic students are preparing to make the summer transition to life at home again once their exams wrap up in April.
The first few weeks of summer can sometimes be challenging for both students and their parents as they work together to iron out the rules and expectations for the next four months. On top of exam stress and pressure to find summer work, UVic students are likely mulling over a pile of questions concerning everything from finances to shared space that their parents will need to have open-minded answers to.
Talking through issues as they arise is inevitable, but some of the most basic questions and rules can create drama when tensions are running high during this transition. Take a look at these common questions and perhaps discuss compromises with your student when they first get home in May to make his or her re-adjustment home a pain-free one.
Expectations and family responsibilities:
- Will there be a curfew in place?
- What has changed in terms of the amount of freedom your student has enjoyed at UVic versus at home this summer?
- What chores and contributions to the home are expected? Will your student be in charge of their own laundry?
- Are there any new family obligations/traditions to be aware of?
- What important dates (sister’s wedding, cousin’s graduation, etc.) should your student pencil in around summer work and social obligations?
Finances:
- How much money does your student need to save this summer?
- Do you expect your student to find full-time work or will part-time hours be sufficient?
- Will you be providing an allowance?
- What are your expectations in terms of rent and other expenses over the summer?
Transportation:
- Will your student have access to a vehicle this summer?
- If yes, what will the shared responsibilities be in terms of gas, insurance, etc.?
- If no, how will your student get to work and social functions?
Shared space:
- Will your student be returning to his or her old bedroom (as it was before UVic)?
- Are you expecting your student to be present at most mealtimes or particular family meals?
- Is their storage space available for remnant furniture from residence?
Visitors:
- Are friends from UVic invited to visit this summer? Are they permitted to stay overnight?
- What about girlfriends/boyfriends?
- Is your student allowed to throw parties?
Originally published in Volume 1, Issue 3 of the Fountain, April 2008
