Applying to college can seem like a high-stakes project—one that many parents naturally want to oversee. After all, parents have guided their child(ren) through every milestone to date.
But, completing college applications isn’t only about being admitted to the next school—teens (and parents) are preparing for what comes next: adulthood. In such an emotionally charged endeavor, many parents swing between two points: micromanaging each detail or stepping back, whiteknuckling and hoping for the best.
But there’s a middle path—one that starts with reflection, either as a group or individually, then together.
Parents can consider questions like:
- Am I managing out of fear or trust or a little of both? What do I fear, where do I trust, and how have I handled such uncertainty in past situtations as I’ve watched my student grow up?
- What expectations am I projecting into the college admissions process—and are they mine, or my child’s, and where is there cross-over?
Students can consider questions such as:
- What do I need from my parents during the application process?
- What tasks do I seek to manage and complete on my own?
- Who am I?
During the application process, parents and teens are navigating a shift in their relationship. Parents are beginning to guide a young adult. While teens are learning the responsibility of making choices for themselves with their family’s support, and the accountability for the consequences.
For parents, letting go doesn’t mean letting down. Sometimes, with some distance from a parent’s purview, and possibly with objective professional advisors, teens can continue discovering more about themselves. And, parents can gain peace of mind their teenager is on track, while evolving their support for a young adult.
Then, both parents and students can step into the next life chapter with confidence, clarity, and most importantly, less stress for everyone.
As a parent, you want your child ready—not just for college, but for life after. At Creative Marbles Consultancy, we guide families through college admissions with care and insight, so each student can make thoughtful, strategic choices. Contact us to learn how we can help.
