<p>My parents have recently developed helicopter tendencies, and I’ve got to say, I find it really irritating and also completely mystifying. I’ve always been an independent and consistent student, albeit one with some sloppy study habits, but I’m first in my class and I’ve asked for help on maybe two projects in my life-- so who cares if my performance cost me a few insomniac nights, right? </p>
<p>Apparently my parents do-- now, at least. And I’m not quite sure what brought this on-- maybe the fact that my homework load has increased exponentially this year, although my performance remains level. It’s not that they’re constantly red-penciling my essays or reworking my physics calculations. In most subjects, they simply can’t offer that level of assistance-- they’re both immigrants with an imperfect grasp of the English language. (I actually proofread all their correspondence.)</p>
<p>They just keep giving me these friendly little reminders to get-working-or-else. It doesn’t matter that I perform better under pressure, that it’s worked for me all these years, that I like my last-minute bursts of creativity, and that my work is better because of them. </p>
<p>I think I’ve learned my lesson now. All I’ve got to do is keep silent and let my parents believe my schedule has become miraculously light. They can’t “help” me with my assignments if they don’t know about them. ;)</p>