The Gaines Kids Head to College: A Look at Drake and Ella Rose’s Journeys

It’s a moment every parent anticipates with a mix of pride and dread: the day your kids pack up thier rooms and head off to college. For Chip and Joanna Gaines, that moment has arrived not once, but twice, as their two eldest children have embarked on their own academic adventures. Despite growing up in the relentless glare of the HGTV spotlight, Drake and Ella Rose Gaines are navigating this classic rite of passage with a refreshing sense of normalcy.Their college choices reflect their unique personalities, and their parents’ reactions-a heartfelt blend of excitement, humor, and wistful sadness-are deeply relatable for anyone who’s ever had to let go.

For Joanna, in particular, watching her children leave the nest has been an emotional journey she’s been surprisingly open about. She’s shared the poignancy of the experience with her millions of followers,proving that even the woman who can flawlessly design a dream home isn’t immune to the ache of an suddenly quiet house. Meanwhile, Chip, ever the joker, has handled it with his characteristic humor, though his pride in his kids’ ambitions shines through just as brightly. Together, they’re figuring out how to parent from a distance, celebrating their children’s independence while secretly counting down the days until they come home for a visit.

Drake’s home-State Adventure at Mary Hardin-Baylor

The Gaines’ firstborn, Drake, didn’t venture far from the family’s Waco roots. He’s attending the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Texas, where he’s pursuing football. He was a standout athlete at Magnolia High School, and continues to play the sport he loves at the collegiate level. His decision to stay in Texas allows him to remain close to his family and the community he knows well. Chip and Joanna have been vocal about their support for Drake’s athletic pursuits, often sharing glimpses of his games and practices on social media. This proximity also means more frequent visits and a smoother transition to college life.

Ella Rose’s Pursuit of the Arts at Pepperdine University

Ella Rose, conversely, opted for a change of scenery, heading to Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. She’s pursuing a degree focused on the arts, a passion she’s cultivated for years. Unlike Drake’s focus on athletics,Ella Rose’s path is centered around creative expression. Pepperdine’s location offers a vibrant cultural environment and opportunities for artistic exploration. Joanna has often highlighted Ella Rose’s artistic talents, showcasing her paintings and creative projects. The distance presents a new set of challenges for both Ella Rose and her parents, but it also fosters independence and allows her to forge her own path.

Parenting From a Distance: Chip and Joanna’s Approach

Chip and Joanna Gaines are navigating the complexities of parenting college students with a blend of practicality and emotion. They’ve emphasized the importance of open dialog and trust, allowing Drake and Ella Rose the space to grow and learn independently. Joanna has been candid about the emotional toll of an empty nest, sharing her feelings of sadness and longing on social media. Though, she also stresses the importance of celebrating her children’s achievements and embracing this new chapter. Chip, true to form, balances the sentimentality with humor, often joking about reclaiming their bedrooms.Despite the distance, they remain actively involved in their children’s lives, offering support and encouragement while respecting their newfound independence.

Key Takeaways

• Drake Gaines is attending Mary Hardin-Baylor in Texas, continuing his football career.
• Ella Rose Gaines is pursuing her passion for the arts at Pepperdine University in California.
• Chip and Joanna Gaines are openly sharing their experiences with their children leaving for college.
• The Gaines family is prioritizing communication and trust as they navigate this new phase of parenting.

Published: 2025/09/07 21:55:32