My College Student Chooses to Stay on Campus for Thanksgiving Again

This fall marks my son's second year at a university situated over a thousand miles from where we live. Initially, sending off our single child was a daunting experience, but the sense of emptiness isn't as overwhelming now. When we bid him farewell this past August, I only teared up slightly, focusing instead on his happiness, and academic as well as personal advancements.

Perhaps that's why I accepted without much fuss when he informed me of his intention to remain on campus during Thanksgiving last year, and again this year. His choice is logical and has allowed our family to embrace a novel experience.

Reliving Traditional Thanksgivings

Growing up, Thanksgiving was celebrated in the traditional sense with our extended family hosting large feasts, complete with turkey, ham, and all the side dishes imaginable. These occasions provided him time to connect with relatives—cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents. We always participated in these gatherings, enjoying after-meal board games and, weather permitting, turkey trots and touch football.

It's clear these events left my son with fond memories, crafted during annual meals and gatherings dedicated to giving thanks.

Adapting to College Life During Holidays

In his freshman year, my son navigated newfound freedom alongside a challenging academic load, more demanding than what he faced in high school. As finals loomed, the pressure mounted, prompting him to prioritize his studies.

He was the one who proposed staying put on campus for the holiday, avoiding the short trip home. My husband and I understood and saw the reasoning behind his suggestion. That year was transformative due to his college transition—so why not redefine Thanksgiving as well?

A New Thanksgiving Tradition

My husband and I promptly reserved flights, arranged for a hotel near our son's university, and set out to spend the holiday with him. It was still Thanksgiving, albeit just the three of us.

When we shared our holiday plans with family—grandparents, aunts, and uncles—the initial response was slight disappointment. However, they ultimately accepted and respected our choice, comforted by the knowledge they'd see him for Christmas, which was non-negotiable.

Last year, we exchanged chilly Midwest temperatures for California's palm trees and warmth. We made the most of the extended weekend with our son, enjoying campus strolls, beach relaxation, and local attractions. The intimate setting was ideal for our trio.

This unconventional holiday offered serene relief compared to the crowded and chaotic Thanksgivings of the past. It also provided a sunny interlude before the December hustle ensued at home.

Embracing the Freedom of Unorthodox Plans

This Thursday, my husband and I will head back to the West Coast. We'll arrive, settle in, pick up our son, and likely grab an easy dinner at In-N-Out.

For the remaining days, we'll simply enjoy ourselves without strict plans or timelines. There's an appealing liberty in that freedom.

This setup might not suit everyone. For some, skipping traditional Thanksgiving could lead to feelings of loss or animosity, recognizing that familial bonds and circumstances vary widely. Fortunately, this approach has surpassed our expectations, and we've embraced it wholeheartedly. I'm genuinely grateful for it.