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So, I find out that my freshman son will not be attending a Friday class so he can travel 5 hours plus to go to a concert in another state. Do I say something stupid like why are you wasting my money? I wouldn't but do not want him to cut classes cavalierly. He told me he spoke to prof that he would not be in class. He is a truthful person. Ok, now I will go back to my cave. Help - how do I handle?

By BBB on Friday, September 13, 2002 - 08:54 pm: Edit

Don't sweat it, Dennis. If he's actually honest enough to let you know he's going to miss a class, he's probably doing fine. Personally, I probably cut 20% of my undergrad classes because one got so little out of them.

By Dadster on Saturday, September 14, 2002 - 11:45 am: Edit

Dennis, cutting one class is almost certainly no big deal. Once in a while a prof might have a very strict attendance policy, but even then there is usually some slack. The fact that your son covered his absence with the prof indicates things will be fine.

Once kids get to college, IMO, results are what count. I.e., you should be concerned about his academic performance, but not necessarily how he studies. Some kids plug away for a few hours a night, others goof off for weeks and then pull an all-nighter before a big test or paper deadline. As long as his grades are OK, don't sweat the details. He sounds like a fine young man.

By Rhonda on Monday, September 16, 2002 - 09:28 am: Edit

I agree with Dadster -- the fact that he talked to the prof indicates you probably don't need to worry.

By dennis on Thursday, September 19, 2002 - 10:48 pm: Edit

thanks so much for all your support. this website is truly a great one. Only wish I found it before the applications went in but we're ok.