Navigating the Decision: My Son’s Journey of Quitting College
As a parent, we often carry dreams and aspirations for our children, believing firmly in the transformative power of education. However, life can take unexpected turns, and sometimes choices that we never anticipated must be made. Recently, my son completed his junior year of college and decided that he would not return for his senior year. This post reflects on his journey through college, the challenges he faced, and my feelings as a parent witnessing this significant decision.
The Early Days: Struggles in College
Like many students, my son had high hopes when he first set foot in college. He was excited about the prospect of learning, making new friends, and growing into an independent adult. However, the reality of college life hit him hard. His first two years were marked by academic struggles that left him feeling overwhelmed and disheartened.
College is different from high school — it demands a level of self-discipline, time management, and motivation that not all students are prepared for. For my son, the transition was tough; balancing a heavy course load, part-time jobs, and social obligations proved to be more challenging than he had expected. This struggle was compounded by the pressure to maintain a certain GPA and the fear of disappointing those around him, including me.
In hindsight, I realize that these challenges are not uncommon. Many students face a steep learning curve in their first years of college, and it’s crucial to address these issues as they arise. Open communication about struggles in academia, mental health, and the pressures of college life could have been beneficial for both of us.
A Turning Point: Improvement in His Junior Year
By the time he reached his junior year, there was a noticeable change. My son found a rhythm that suited him. He began to understand his strengths and weaknesses, sought help when needed, and even developed a passion for his major field of study. With newfound determination, he improved his grades and started to envision a future where he could utilize his education effectively.
This period of growth was heartening for me as a parent and seemed to affirm that he was on the right path. However, change doesn’t always come without its own hurdles. Even with his academic improvements, the shadow of doubt and uncertainty loomed large, especially regarding what the future held post-college.
Facing Reality: The Decision to Quit
After successfully completing his junior year, the advice from his academic counselor took him by surprise