It’s no secret that the transition from high school to college can be daunting for students. What’s rarely addressed is how much the transition can impact the parents/guardians.
Danny Jordan, proud father of THREE (yes, three) Tarleton Texans, knows better than anyone how much life changes once your students are in college. However, sometimes, change can be a good thing.
How many kids have you had in college?
I have Three Tarleton Texans! Two who both got their Bachelors and Masters at Tarleton (Madison Jordan TSU ‘18 and TSU ‘19 and Camryn Jordan TSU ‘21 and TSU ‘22) and one who is doing his Bachelors right now (Houston Jordan TSU ‘27).
Pictured left to right: Houston Jordan (front row), Camryn Jordan and Madison Jordan.
What were the steps you took to prepare your children for college?
Save cash, seek all financial aid and grant options, make smart babies that earn scholarships to pay for most of it.
What resources, if any, made the college transition process easier for you as a parent?
Intelligent children and Tarleton’s generous rewards for their hard work. Tarleton felt like a family from day one. I felt confident sending my babies to a school where they felt at home.
Are there any resources you wish were available to parents?
Not especially. It’s more than fair to the general public if they do their part. Tarleton does plenty to support parents and students. Stay connected.
What was life like at home after your children moved away to college?
Sad and lonely at first, then a bit liberating. It allowed my wife and I to re-connect to one another.
What advice might you give to other parents who might struggle with having an empty nest?
Before the kids leave, find a hobby, make plans for trips, add-on or improve your house.
During their freshman year, did you take a small step back to allow your students to grow and experience things?
Simply by proximity, the kids were on their own. We didn’t miss parent weekends and other opportunities but encouraged them to communicate with us then let them have their space to grow and thrive. We were there when they needed us, but celebrated their pursuit of success.
Were you able to give advice to your students about college life, classes, relationships, dorm, and being financially smart?
All we could dream up. In the end, they learn to manage their time and money or go without lol. Awesome!!!
What advice would you give to other students who just started their college journey?
Know who you are and be yourself. Many new college kids won’t be happy until they place other students in a box that benefits them. Get involved in activities and functions, meet people organically at your level of comfort and go to class!!!!
Did events like Family Weekend and Homecoming make you feel closer to your child?
Yes, Family weekend and Homecoming were great. The kids eventually get content being away and your presence becomes less required. However, they still love the visits and the hugs because they get restocked on groceries, tires fixed, laundry done, and a little cash in their pockets. I loved watching both my girls dance with the Texan Stars, celebrate with their friends in Delta Zeta, and connect with their many other organizations they were involved in. As my son gets involved at Tarleton, I am excited to hear about his involvement with Lambda Chi and his studies in the Engineering program.
If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice about the transition from high school parent to college parent, what would you say?
Same I’m telling the kids. Maybe slow down and remember you’re there for an education. Don’t let your social life dominate your time and thoughts. It’ll come in time. Go Texans!
