Going to college is a milestone in any young person’s life and having the right support system can make all the difference in how the journey goes. Friends play an instrumental role in this support system. If someone close to you is about to embark on their college journey, it’s important that you’re there to offer a helping hand and a listening ear when it’s needed. But what can you do to show that you care? Is being on the other end of the phone enough? Here are some tips to help you be the most supportive friend you can be.
Financial Help
It’s no secret that the rising costs of education is preventing people from going to college and getting the education that they need to succeed in their chosen career. That said, being there financially for your friend might just be the best thing you’ll ever do for them. If they are struggling to pay their existing student loan, look to the option of a student loan refinance with a cosigner. If your credit score is sufficient, signing for them will give them the security they need to continue studying. Can you imagine how much stress that would alleviate from your friend? Other ways you can be there for them include covering the cost of meals when they’re home for the holidays or offering to pay for their rent occasionally.
Pay Attention
Your friend will be going through a whirlwind of emotions as they embark on their journey. They’ll have to get used to new surroundings, new people and a new routine, and this may also be their first taste of independence in life. It’s undoubtedly an exciting time, but it’s also extremely scary and stressful. Your job is to pay attention to the changes that are happening and to be aware of how your friend may be feeling. If they talk to you about certain aspects of their new life, listen and ask questions. Be curious and show that you’re interested. Pay attention to when they get holidays and have something nice planned for the break. Know their class schedule and don’t contact them during those periods. These are just some ways that show you’re a friend who is supportive and interested in what’s happening.
Listen and Offer Advice
Your friend has money worries and is struggling to cope with the rising living costs. Listen to their concerns and offer advice to make the situation better. Your friend had a run-in with another classmate who was rude in class. Give up your time to listen to every detail of the story. Your friend is lonely and missing home. Pick up the phone and listen to how they are feeling. Your friend is having relationship issues and needs a good rant. Be that listening ear and let them know that you’re always there to offer advice.
Resolve Conflict Quickly
Being apart is going to put some strain on your relationship. It’s only natural, but what you both do to alleviate this strain will determine if your friendship survives or not. To keep conflict at bay, it’s a good idea to not set expectations too high when it comes to communication etc. Keep in regular contact and don’t fall out if replies are taking longer than normal. Stress can cause silly arguments over things that are not important so be aware when this happens and resolve the conflict quickly. As with all relationships in life, it’s not a good idea to let small problems fester, as they become much bigger and more serious. Communication is key, so laugh it off and don’t be too hard on each other.
Help Them Study
This may not be fun for you, but it will help your friend avoid academic burnout. Lend a helping hand when it comes to studying, you’ll need to create a study plan together. Make sure that it’s realistic and achievable so that your friend won’t get overwhelmed. Set aside specific times each day that both of you will devote to studying, review what they’ve learned in class, go over topics that need extra attention, and make time for breaks in between sessions. Having someone else around will also help keep them motivated and accountable if they start to feel like giving up halfway through.
