We’re packing up two of our kids to head off to college over the next few weeks. One is a freshman and one is transferring to a new school, so it’s all new for both of them. Those first few weeks of college can be overwhelming and exciting and anxiety-inducing, and if you’re feeling lonely and homesick it’s so much worse.
That’s why I’m a believer that the best thing you can buy to help your college student make friends is a door stop. When your student isn’t studying or sleeping, encourage them to keep the door propped open. People walking up and down the hall will smile and wave, or maybe even stop and say hi. If you have a funny, conversation-starting doorstop, even better.
If you’re living in a suite-style dorm with an entry area bathroom, grab two doorstops so they can see all the way to the hallway. These rooms are posh compared to the communal-style dorms built in the ’60s. But there’s something to be said for a door that opens straight to the hallway or running into people in a shared bathroom that builds friendships.
So prop those doors open and meet people. Thirty years later when you’re still best friends, you’ll be pretty glad you did.
Spilled Milk 