Stepping into university life comes with its own set of tribulations — manoeuvering in a new environment, trying to fit into a community of strangers and most importantly, attempting to grasp an entirely new syllabus.

For many of us, this daunting experience also means leaving the comfort of our homes for the first time.

However, being away doesn’t mean the drama ensuing at home stops there! Read on as we give you some insight into the priceless text encounters you’re bound to have with your parents as you venture into the great unknown.

#1. The subtle “I need money” texts

As a student, you know it’s the end of the month when your pocket is starting to feel the pinch, and it’s time to pop the question to mum or dad for some extra moolah.

Just when you think you’re being subtle, they’re quick to catch your ulterior motives.

Whoever said food, water and shelter are the only human necessities? Life is expensive, dad. Saving? Eew.

#2. The SOS

Being thrust into the real world and far from the luxury of home means having to partake in peasanty activities, such as cleaning your room, tidying your workspace and doing (gasp) laundry.

Who knew that leaving home didn’t automatically come with an instruction manual on how to “adult”? But don’t worry, sooner or later you’ll get the hang of it.

#3. The food safety check

After a year at university, the novelty of eating fast-food suppers will wear off and you’ll realise there’s nothing like mum’s cooking.

However, your hopeless cooking skills mean you’ll be reheating the same home-cooked meals for as long as you can till semester break.

Sticks and stones won’t break my bones so 8-day-old rice can’t kill me.

#4. The missed calls

If you thought being out of your parents' peripheral vision means they’ll stop checking up on you, think again. Get used to receiving calls at unearthly hours because parents tend to forget that uni life = sleep all day and party all night.

CAUTION: You’ve entered the danger zone. Call back or face the consequences.

Fair warning: the rules never apply both ways.

#5. Getting caught red-handed lying on social media

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you’ve become a professional at manipulating your social media feed around family members. Just as you think you’re alone and free to do as you please, mum reminds you that she’s always watching.

Social media — a blessing and a curse.

#6. The weekly furbaby photos

For some of you, leaving your furbabies at home whilst you’re off to university will be the hardest part of the experience.

When times are ruff, all you need is a reminder of your favourite family member to keep you going!

#7. The good morning texts

Being away from home means your family members will attempt to compensate for your absence by adding you to every extended family group in existence. Soon, you’ll be no stranger to these morning motivation texts:

Now, if only there was a way to convert it into study motivation.

#8. The exam season texts

Typically known as a period of hibernation, exam season means spending long hours cooped up in your room, huddled over textbooks and surviving on cereal.

Your parents will start to worry whether you’ve eaten enough, slept comfortably and if you’ve actually left your room in the last 24 hours.

At the end of a long and tough week, it‘s heartwarming to know that your family has got your back even when you’re miles away.

#9. The absurdly high parental expectations

Campus life is difficult enough as it is without having to cope with the pressure of your parents’ expectations. Don’t be surprised to find these mixed signals populating your family chat group:

If you’re feeling bogged down by your responsibilities, it’s important to remember that your parents only want the best for your future. However, if you are struggling to cope with university life, it is imperative that you communicate with them instead of suffering in silence.

#10. The “We’re visiting!” texts

You’ll soon come to realise that one of the highlights of your week, month or even year is when your family comes to visit. This usually means a day filled with good company and great food (for a change).

Naturally, you’ll use this golden opportunity to your advantage.

You know the uni life struggle is real when you cease any opportunity to stock up on proper food. Even your dad knows there’s only so much instant noodles you can eat for one month.

#11. The reminder of home sweet home

You might think that going to university means you’re safe from the responsibilities you had at home. Wrong again. Thanks (or not) to technology, the chaos ensuing at home follows you wherever you go.

It’ll feel like you never even left.

#12. The “feeling homesick” texts

Despite the freedom that comes with living on your own, being away from home for months on end is likely to leave you feeling homesick at some point in the semester. If you’re feeling down and out, just remember that mum and dad are only a phone call away.

They may not say it, but we know they’re only playing it cool. Miss you too, dad!

The changes that come with university life may be difficult for you to adjust to at first, but living on your own will soon become second nature. And don’t worry — if things get overwhelming, you can be assured that your friends and family will always be there to cheer you on. After all, they’re only a text message away. Good luck!

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