FAO IED

This sounds awful. I don't know what hold they have over you re: funding your degree, but you have GOT to put your foot down here. If you don't, they'll never allow you to break free. What you do in your spare time is your business: and if you stand up to them, they might be difficult for a bit, but trust me, if they love you (as of course they do), they'll respect you and your independence all the more.

Don't get angry: be calm and diplomatic, and show them how grown-up and responsible you are. If they're worried about hooligans, reassure them that there's nothing to be concerned about: you know how to look after yourself. If they're worried about you being on your own in a foreign country, emphasise the self-reliance you've developed in your first few months away at uni. That way, they can have no argument: and if they still do, that'll be the time to make it perfectly clear (albeit still maintaining your calm) that you're 19, you're going, and they have no right to stop you.

Good luck! It'll be fine: but whatever you do, stick to your guns, and don't bottle out!

Posted By: thebigfeller, Feb 5, 17:01:20