Back to School 2025: A Fresh Start for Students and Parents 

As summer fades in the Carolinas and school bells chime again, families are preparing for the new academic year. Whether you’re a college student stepping into independence, a high schooler chasing big dreams, or a parent navigating the emotional rollercoaster of back-to-school season—this is your moment to reset, refocus, and re-engage with purpose. 

At Dale Carnegie North Carolina, we believe that success in school and in life starts with mindset, communication, and connection. Let’s explore how each group can make the most of this season, guided by timeless Dale Carnegie principles that build confidence and strengthen relationships. 

For College Students: Owning Your Independence 

Whether you’re heading to UNC, NC State, Duke, or a local community college, college life is your launchpad. Here’s how to make it count: 

1. 1. Take Charge of Your Learning 
      “Take a chance! All life is a chance. The man who goes farthest is generally the one who is willing to do and dare.” 
      — Dale Carnegie 

• Review your syllabus early and plan your semester. Be sure to make the most of vacation days and long weekends too—we need to plan our rest as the year progresses. 
• Use tools like Notion, Google Calendar, or Microsoft 365 to stay on top of deadlines. 
• Don’t hesitate to ask for help—professors and peers are there to support you. 

2. 2. Build Meaningful Relationships 

• Dale Carnegie Principle: Become genuinely interested in other people. 
• Join campus organizations, attend events, and introduce yourself to new people to actively build your network. 
• Practice active listening and remember names—it creates a lasting impression and encourages others to do the same. 

3. 3. Balance Freedom with Responsibility 

• Set a budget and track your spending. Learning basic money management now lays the groundwork for managing a department or company budget one day. 
• Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and mental health. The real challenge isn’t waking up early—it’s having the discipline to go to bed early. 

 For High Schoolers: Building Habits for the Future 

Create a routine that supports both your academic and personal goals. 

High schoolers, you are stepping into a critical phase of growth. Here’s how to thrive: 

• Set Clear Goals 
  Dale Carnegie Principle: Give honest, sincere appreciation. 
• Celebrate small wins—whether it’s a good grade, a completed project, or a kind gesture. 
• Use a vision board or journal to track your goals and progress. 

2. 2. Get Involved 
      “People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing.” 
      — Dale Carnegie 

• Try out for a sport, join a club, or volunteer in your community. 
• These experiences build leadership, teamwork, and confidence—and they broaden your circle of friends. 

3. 3. Navigate Social Pressures with Grace 
      Dale Carnegie Principle: Show respect for the other person’s opinions. Never say, ‘You’re wrong.’ 

• Practice empathy and kindness, especially online. 
• Learn how to get along with people you may not naturally connect with. This earns respect and builds a critical life skill. 
• Surround yourself with people who uplift and challenge you. 

For Parents: Supporting Without Hovering 

Whether your child is starting kindergarten or college, your role is vital. 

1. 1. Create a Supportive Environment 
      Dale Carnegie Principle: Make the other person feel important—and do it sincerely. 

• Encourage routines that promote focus and rest. 
• Celebrate effort, not just outcomes. 
• Travel sports can be a big commitment for the whole family—communicate openly and show grace through tight schedules and occasional frustration. 

2. 2. Stay Involved, Not Overbearing 

• Stay informed through school portals, but trust your child to manage their responsibilities. 
• Let them take ownership by not doing tasks they can do themselves (this prepares them for the workplace). 
• Ask open-ended questions like, “Tell me about something interesting you learned today?” Then listen with genuine interest rather than jumping in with advice. 

3. 3. Be a Safe Space 
      “Instead of worrying about what people say of you, why not spend time trying to accomplish something they will admire?” 
      — Dale Carnegie 

• Watch for signs of stress or burnout in your child. 
• Offer encouragement and remind them that setbacks are part of the growth journey. 

Bonus Tips for Everyone 

• • Tech Tools: Try apps like Forest (focus), Quizlet (study), and Headspace (mindfulness). 

• • Healthy Habits: Hydrate, move your body, and get outside. 

• • Keep Perspective: Celebrate progress, not perfection. 

• • Mantra for the Year: “Act enthusiastic and you’ll be enthusiastic.” 

Make this A Year of Possibility: Back-to-school isn’t just about returning to routine, it’s about embracing the opportunity to reset, refocus, and reconnect. Whether you’re stepping into a new grade or cheering from the sidelines, lean into this season of growth with curiosity and connection. 

“Success is getting what you want. Happiness is wanting what you get.” 
— Dale Carnegie 

Let’s make this school year one of growth, gratitude, and genuine connection.