Oh yeah, most students show differences after starting college. It's a sign that your student is blossoming, so no worries.

• Your student may have new ideas, opinions, and maybe even a new look. Stay open-minded and supportive so they feel acceptance.
• Curfews, rules, and household chores will be a huge shock to your student who now feels completely independent.
• Unfortunately, most students experiment during the first year of college. Be aware, it can happen.
• New habits (i.e. altered sleep pattern, new gestures, favorite words, clothing choices) are normal.
• Your student will spend most of their time visiting friends.
• Before they go back to school, take them shopping for groceries, clothing, toothpaste etc.
• Consider adjusting pre-college curfews and household responsibilities. Your student feels like an adult now.
• Students will come home with a lot of things, and these things will spread all over the house.
• Your student will feel independent. Let them feel that way and respect those feelings.
• If you're ready for your student to return to college when the break is over, you are not a bad parent.
• Make your student's favorite meal, rent their favorite movie; do something to remind them of home.
• Changes are natural, but extreme shifts in personality and/or mood-swings can be signs of mental illness and/or addiction.