ABOVE: 18-year-old An-gel Braddy received a full scholarship to attend Oral Roberts University.

For most students, this is the time for transitions. Summer break is over, and the daily ritual of scheduled classes and homework assignments returns.

For parents whose children attend college for the first time and move away from home, this also marks a time of major change.

From the student’s perspective, a different world awaits with new responsibilities, schedules and friends. As these students gain new perspectives, parents must also switch roles.  It’s a life transition some families have found challenging.

Producer Bruce Nix introduces us to one family who’s successfully managing the “empty next syndrome,” sharing tips which they hope will help parents in similar situations.

Separation Anxiety from Alabama NewsCenter on Vimeo.