Finishing up the senior year of high school is a challenge. There are a lot of exams to take and events to mark the end of their public school experience. On top of all that, they also have to start applying to colleges.
This is a big deal in the life of a student as it involves a decision that will have an effect on them for the rest of their lives. To say that they have a lot on their plate at this time is an understatement.
Parents need to be able to find some ways to help them get through the process while still giving them some leeway. In this article, we will go over some ways that you can be supportive and helpful while your child sends out college applications.
Be available but not overbearing
Sending college applications needs to be done by the student and not the parent. After all, it is your child they are looking to accept and not you. So, you have to do your best to take a backseat and be available when they have their typical college admissions questions and any other information that they’re unsure about.
Offer advice when asked and let them know that you are there to help. You may also offer to take a look before they send it off to see if the information is accurate.
Keep up to date
As was already mentioned, your child has a lot going on at this point in their lives so it is always a good idea to check in with them on occasion to make sure they are coping well. They can easily get overwhelmed and feel like they are not making much headway, but are afraid to ask for help. They want to seem like they are capable on their own.
By asking them what their status is, it lets them know that you are not going to judge their ability to get things done. You should ask specific questions, however, so avoid general ones like how they are doing overall.
Ask them about the college applications and if they are stuck on anything. Then, offer to take something off of their plate so they can focus on the applications or final exams or whatever it is that they have to prioritize at the moment. This will help them tackle the applications without too many distractions.
Hire an advisor
The entire admissions process is certainly much different now than it was when you were going through the process years ago. It’s difficult to give good advice when you are unsure of what the current landscape looks like.
There are admissions advisors that do know what the latest requirements are and can be hired to help your child get through the process. Part of what makes it difficult for them is not knowing if they are doing the right steps or if their application will help or hurt them.
An advisor will help keep them on track and give them a leg up on the competition so their application stands out.
Photo Credits
Image by Jan Vašek from Pixabay
Guest Author Bio
John Moran
John Moran is an American who enjoys the fine art of living well. His interests include anything wine, food or nature related especially when enjoyed with friends and family.
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