Setting College Students Up for Success in 2026

From a Mom with Three in College at Once

With three college students in our family at the same time, I’ve slowly earned the unofficial title of “college mom who has learned a few things along the way.” Each new semester reminds me that setting kids up for success goes far beyond dorm snacks and packed cars—though those things absolutely matter.

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Yes, we still make sure there are snacks for the dorm, gas in the car, and a warm blanket tucked in the backseat in case winter weather rolls in while they’re driving back and forth across the state. But as the years go by, I’ve realized there are a few other things that may matter even more.

Look for Conferences & Opportunities

One of the best ways to help college students start a new semester—or a new year—strong is by helping them look beyond themselves.

Two of our kids spent the first three days of 2026 with more than 12,000 other college-age students at Cross Con in Louisville. There’s really no better way to kick off a new year than learning how to live on mission and serve God in real, tangible ways.

As you help your college students plan ahead for spring break and summer, now is the perfect time to ask bigger questions:

• Are there mission trips through their local church?
• Does the local Baptist Campus Ministry or Delight Ministry have retreats or conferences coming up?
• Is there a summer camp that needs staff?
• Are there internships that you need to apply for now?

Applications for these opportunities often open early, and the planning starts now. Helping them think about how they can serve—and where God might use them—sets a foundation that reaches far beyond one semester.

Give Them a Solid Study Bible

Last fall, I had the opportunity to give our youngest son a new study Bible. This year, I was able to do the same for Natalie.

Looking for the perfect Bible for your sister, friend, or female family member? The CSB Women’s Study Bible is a beautiful, full-color study Bible created by women for women, featuring helpful notes, timelines, maps, and resources placed right alongside the Scripture to help women of all ages dig deeper into God’s Word.

Order your copy today wherever books and Bibles are sold or visit csbwom-
ensstudybible.com to learn more!

Having a reliable study Bible is such a gift. It’s not just a book—it’s a tool that helps them dig deeper, ask better questions, and truly understand what they’re reading. When faith becomes their own, not just something borrowed from parents, that resource becomes invaluable.

Make Sure They Have a Paper Planner

Yes, Google Calendar is great for tracking big events. But there’s still something powerful about a paper planner.

Writing things down—class schedules, assignment deadlines, work hours, and events—helps everything stay aligned. A paper planner gives them a visual picture of their week and makes it easier to see what’s coming before something gets missed.

“Now” Is My Favorite Season of being a Mom

I’ve often been asked what my favorite age has been for our kids, and I still stand by my answer: this is my favorite season yet.

I love having adult kids. I love watching them step into responsibility, faith, and purpose. It’s a rewarding, humbling place to be as a mom.

What about you? What are your favorite ways to start a new college semester with adult kids? I’d love to hear what’s working for your family.

Enter to WIN!

Giveaway: 1 copy of the CSB Women’s Study Bible (Floral Hardcover version)
Qualifications: Giveaway winners must be US residents who have not won via
another blogger’s giveaway for this campaign.

How to enter giveaway: Simply leave a comment here on the post or on any of our social media channels before 1/17/26. Winner will be chosen by random selection.