Tips from a parent

We talked to Kevin New, father of the Indiana Daily Student’s summer editor-in-chief, Jake, about his experience that first year. Below is his advice on everything from moving in to visiting Bloomington.

What were your feelings on Jake choosing to go to IU?
Kevin New I was born in Bloomington and spent my teen years around IU and always hoped my kids would go there. So I was very happy for Jake’s decision to go there.

What was your biggest worry about Jake’s first year here?
KN My biggest worry was Jake, being from a small town and a very small high school, that he would have trouble fitting in.

How was the moving in process like? What advice would you give to parents about move-in day?
KN Our move in went smooth mainly because we are local. I would tell incoming parents to come for a visit early and see the town and where the kids will be living. It will save you some worry and sleepless nights.

How was your communication the first year (frequent, phone calls, etc.)?
KN The first year was actually the best year. He was doing so much and wanted to tell us everything. After that be prepared for your kid to get their own life and not have as much time to call home as you will want.

Did your relationship change a lot with Jake?
KN Of course it will change. You will see your little boy become a man and not need you as much to take care of things. You just have to step back and be proud and hope for that occasional call saying, “Could you help me with this?”

Did you visit IU the first year? If so, when? What times of year would you suggest parents visit, and what would you suggest they do with their student?
KN Once again, being within an hour from Bloomington we got to visit a lot. I would tell parents to let the student decide when to visit. There’s nothing worse than planning on spending time with your kids and being told, “I have class all day and a test to study for.” But when you are here for a visit you must tour the campus - it’s one the most beautiful schools in the world. And then head downtown and experience the life in Bloomington (not the night life). A perfect day trip to Brown County or the lake would be a nice visit.

What is your number one piece of advice for parents?
KN The number one thing for new IU parents is to let go and let them make decisions. This is going to be hard for some parents, but you have to let go and watch them grow. This will be a sad time for some of you but as time goes by, you get to watch them become the adults you dreamed they would be.