Many parents of rising high school juniors and seniors are often concerned their teens seem less concerned about selecting colleges, than they do. Inexperienced and given the complexity of considering life’s big (and philosophical) questions, such as, “What’s my life’s purpose?”, many teens simply avoid or grunt monosyllabic answers about college choices.
Thus, parents can continue guiding their teenage children in reflections, helping identify criteria and standards for considering various college campuses.
Finding the Right College Fit
1. Reflect As Much As Possible:
Brainstorm a student’s academic interests, extracurricular commitments, and what a student imagines college to be.
2. Dream the List:
Let students “play” with their list, like auditioning different candidates to understand their match. Eventually, families can consider admit rates and the diversity of campuses to increase chances of acceptance thus options.
3. Focus on Fit Over Prestige:
Focus on colleges where a student will discover more about their aptitude with mentors’ support, while experimenting with different professions through internships, surrounded by a strong community. A college’s reputation can be but one factor to consider in choosing particular colleges.
4. “Learn Things”
Follow college admissions offices social media and click who they’re “Following”, then students can review student groups, academic resources, and other “hidden” opportunities on a college campus.
With patience and candor during a series of conversations, families can propose a diverse list of colleges. Then, during the process of drafting the autobiographical college essays, students can confirm their choices, as well as discover new campus options. Thus, students will select strong matches, rather than hoping to be select-ed.
For over twenty years, Creative Marbles experts have moderated family conversations regarding complex educational decisions, lending our expertise to reduce the risk of malinvestment. For more information, contact us.
