Ah, autumn! The season of changing leaves, chilly breezes, football games, and pumpkin spice everything. For parents of high school seniors, it also marks the beginning of the college application frenzy.
If you’re like I was, the stress and anxiety of your child applying to college can feel overwhelming. I found myself obsessively researching acceptance rates and fretting about my kids’ chances at their dream schools. Reflecting on those years, I realize there were many things I did that, frankly, make me cringe now. What I learned is that while I wanted to guide them, when it came to college applications, my influence was limited. Here are ten tips I’ve gathered to help you and your child navigate this process more smoothly, so you both come out stronger on the other side.
1. Let Your Child Take the Lead
Resist the urge to fill out any part of the application for your child. Sit beside them if necessary, but allow them to do the work. It’s important for them to own this experience; their name is on the application, after all.
2. Avoid Managing Their Credentials
Don’t keep track of the usernames and passwords for the colleges your child applies to. Don’t check their application status without them either. This process is about your child, not you.
3. Encourage Continued Exploration
If your child settles on a school simply because they are attracted to the social scene, encourage them to keep exploring other options. There are countless universities that could be a perfect fit.
4. Be Cautious with Essay Reviews
Even if you were an English major, hold off on reviewing your child’s essays. If they need help, suggest they seek guidance from a teacher or a tutor.
5. Plan Financially Early
Don’t wait until the last minute to discuss your family’s financial situation. While you may have told your child they can attend any school, ensure that you’re not putting your financial future at risk.
6. Steer Clear of Comparison
Avoid asking your child about their friends’ applications or scores. Each student’s journey is unique, and focusing on others can lead to unnecessary anxiety.
7. Limit Conversations with Other Parents
If possible, take a break from talking to other parents of seniors throughout the application season. Hearing about others’ kids can create doubt and stress about your own child’s prospects.
8. Hold Off on School Merchandise
Don’t buy any college gear until admissions decisions are made. It can feel like tempting fate and may just end up being a waste of money.
9. Don’t Break the News Early
If you happen to check your child’s admission status and see they’ve been accepted, resist the urge to call them immediately, especially if they’re in a different time zone. Let them experience it in their own time.
10. Keep Perspective
Remember, this process is about your child’s future, not yours. Their college choice is a personal decision that reflects their goals and aspirations, separate from your dreams or regrets.
May the college admissions process be smooth for both you and your child, and may it lead to fulfilling opportunities. If you’re interested in exploring fertility options, check out our other blog posts at Home Insemination Kit, where we offer insightful information on related topics like artificial insemination.
In summary, supporting your child through the college application process requires patience and restraint. By encouraging independence and keeping the focus on their aspirations, you can help make this a more enjoyable experience for both of you.