Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Have Fun Be Safe I Love You: and Everything Else I Want to Say to My Kids About College and Beyond

Rate this book
This book is a real-talk guide to navigating college and life. With easy-to-read and funny chapters like Ditch People that Drain You and Don't Go Home Every Weekend , this book is a must-have for any high school graduate or college freshman. It includes practical advice on everything from budgeting to befriending your advisor, told through relatable anecdotes and quotes from recent college graduates and faculty. Life lessons delivered in short and sharp chapters, this book is inspiring and empowering.




Divided into three useful how to live on your own, tips for maximizing on-campus resources and relationships, and how to set yourself up for the future, it's like a pep talk from your funny friend. This book gives explicit permission to "go get your life." 




Insight on relationships, professor pointers, overcoming fear, asking for help, managing your time, and job hunting - this book is full of tangible advice for living a fulfilled life. Written by a former high-school teacher, Have Fun, Be Safe, I Love You is relatable and thoughtful. It's everything you wanted to tell your younger Don't compare yourself to anyone, prioritize your wellbeing, try new things, and learn how to manage your time.




"Unlike other college guides, this book is easy and fun to read (for any age). A perfect mix of practical and inspirational." Maria Mateos




"What Kate captures best in this collection of lessons is an important college is not about getting a job after you graduate; instead, it's a place to learn about yourself, and how to navigate the relationships and potential distractions that will undoubtedly impact your college experience. The advice is witty, practical, and most notably, endearing." Associate Professor Matthew McConn, Binghamton University




"It's a perfect handbook for the tumultuous bridge between youth and adulthood. Kate Hickey takes the role of that wise and witty guide you most want by your side." Jodie Rogers, Bestselling Author, and Mental Health Expert

156 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 2, 2022

3 people are currently reading
31 people want to read

About the author

Kate Hickey

4 books1 follower

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
26 (70%)
4 stars
3 (8%)
3 stars
7 (18%)
2 stars
1 (2%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
1 review
January 22, 2022
LOVE this book- I will be giving this to every high school graduate I know! I’ve been following the author’s travel blog for a few years (Hickeyseverywhere.com) and I can’t get enough of her humor, great insight and pure positivity! This book is a great reminder to all pre or post college: you are enough, always do you and stick with people and things that bring you joy! This book brings me joy!!
Profile Image for Kate Hickey.
10 reviews5 followers
January 23, 2022
Loved this book. I'm going to buy 10 copies minimum to have on-hand anytime I need to give a high school graduation gift.
3 reviews
March 24, 2022
This book is everything I wish I knew as a college freshman, or hell, even as a senior. Funny, relatable, and chock full of all the things you need to know to be successful and happy! I cannot wait to give this book as a gift!!
Absolutely loved it!
Profile Image for ava eiben.
40 reviews1 follower
March 30, 2025
My mom gave me this book when I moved in last semester and I didn’t look at it but college has been kicking my ass recently so yesterday I picked it up and I read it. Not revolutionary, probably should have read it at the beginning of last semester.
1 review
January 28, 2022
LOVED, Loved, loved it.
This book resonates with ALL ages, with so many reminders of how to live a full and happy life. Perfect graduation gift and perfect gift to give yourself!
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews