As the high of the high school graduation festivities end, many recently graduated students are starting summer jobs and other experiences. However, the next phase of schooling for those headed to college will arrive in an instant. While moving to college may be exciting, it can also be challenging due to uncertainty and doubt.

Here are four books to read this summer to assist students and their families in approaching this rite of passage with confidence and intention. We also included advice from the authors to offer guidance to incoming first-year students in the autumn as they make their way onto college campuses. 

Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Simon Sinek's debut and most popular book shows how leaders with great influence in their field think, act, and communicate - and how it all starts with "why." Sinek calls this idea "The Golden Circle," providing a framework for organizations, businesses, and movements to adapt. He has since touched millions with his message, especially with his TED Talk based on this book, which has been one of the most-watched TED talks ever. 

Although the book focuses on the business side of things, it is also helpful to education. In the book, Sinek encourages leaders to identify their core beliefs - their "why" - before the "what" and "how." This idea is also helpful to students as they consider what they will study in college and how they will get involved on campus.

Sinek advised students going to college to use their time in college to learn more than the subjects. They should also learn how to make decisions, take accountability, and communicate with people effectively. He also said that the most important lesson is to become a good friend, one that people go to in case something good happens. Sinek also urged parents to encourage their children to follow their passion and avoid forcing them to study things they think are important.  

Mindset Matters by Daniel Porterfield

In "Mindset Matters," Daniel Porterfield talks about the benefits of college education and how it helps students develop growth mindsets. According to Porterfield, the "growth mindset" is the belief that we can improve our core qualities through effort and education. People with this mindset believe in self-improvement and are goal-oriented and optimistic. They also welcome feedback with open arms as opportunities to start anew. 

Porterfield is the president and CEO of the Aspen Institute, a former college president, and an educator deeply committed to access and student success. This book includes 30 tales of growth in college, many of which start with the first-year experience.

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Porterfield advised students starting college this fall to take the initiative because college offers infinite opportunities for growth, with resources and educators available to help. He also advised new college students to apply themselves consistently to build new connections, discover new interests, and develop their core skills and talents. Porterfield also noted that college education is "yours to make."

Let Your Life Speak by Parker Palmer

Parker Palmer invites readers to listen to the inner teacher and heed the path to one's purpose and meaning. With wise words, compassionate advice, and gentle humor, Palmer tells stories based on his own experience and from the lives of others who made a difference. The book provides insights he gained during his dark times struggling with depression and his moments of success and joy, showing a path toward one's purpose and meaning.

Palmer is a Quaker educator, writer, and speaker who founded the Center for Courage and Renewal. In this book, he warns readers not to live life following people's expectations but to follow their values and inner calling.

His advice to incoming college students was to lead the life and work they love and focus on things that will help them reach their goals in the future. He also noted that people living the lives they wanted did not plan it; instead, they worked hard at what they were doing and did their best until the right thing came as "lightning." Palmer emphasized that to "maximize the chances of being hit by lightning," one must spend a lot of time in the rain.

The Naked Roommate by Harlan Cohen

This book by Harlan Cohen gives information and advice on various aspects of college life, such as roommates, classes, parties, finances, and fraternities. Cohen is an advice columnist who became the New York Times bestselling author of seven books. He is also an influencer with a significant following on social media platforms. His debut book, "The Naked Roommate," gives needed advice for students transitioning from high school to college.

Cohen advised new college students to call their first year the "getting comfortable year." It is when students should figure out what works and does not work for them. It is also the time for students to find their place. Cohen noted that one must choose a group or organization in which they can be accepted and included without auditioning. 

He also emphasized that roommates do not have to be friends. They must agree to communicate what makes them uncomfortable, giving them a better chance to become friends. Cohen also told students to talk to their professors and not wait to be approached first.

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