Parent's Guide to College Decisions: How to Help Your Teen Navigate Their Path

parent's guide to college college decision helping teens choose their path

By E.Baloyo , Parent Herald Apr 04, 12:30 pm

Photo: (Photo : Win McNamee / Getty Images)

It is that time of the year when college decisions nationwide have already been released. Some kids have aced their matches with their desired college, while others, no matter how qualified they are, were also rejected.

Keeping the balance between being a helicopter parent and a helpful parent can become blurry in times when parents want to give their children the best.

However, as parents, understanding how to provide the right support and guidance is crucial to empowering your teen to make informed choices that align with their interests in the future. With that, here's a curated list of a parent's guide to college:

Helping Teens Choose Their Path

1. Inquire About Your Teen's Preferences in College Application Assistance

Different students have varying preferences regarding their parents' involvement in the college application process. Some may desire more active participation, while others may prefer less. The key to determining how best to assist your teen lies in open communication and asking them directly about their needs and preferences.

Initiate a conversation with your teen about specific tasks they would appreciate help with and the manner in which they would feel most supported. Recognize that this process is novel for both you and your teen, requiring a "learn as you go" approach, with roles possibly evolving over time.

2. Avoid Pressuring Your Student to Choose a Specific School

It's essential to remember that it's your teen who will ultimately attend college, not you. Refrain from steering them towards schools that impress you or exerting pressure on them to attend your alma mater.

Value the experiences your child will gain, rather than focusing on the prestige of a particular institution. Consider whether a college offers the academic programs and campus culture that align with your teen's interests and excitement, rather than prioritizing its brand recognition.

3. Refrain From Comparisons

The college selection process can be stressful, and parents should avoid exacerbating this stress by comparing their teen's acceptances or rejections with those of others. Each student has unique interests, passions, and goals that should guide their decision-making.

Emphasizes the importance of how students utilize resources and seize opportunities at college, rather than fixating on external comparisons.

4. Discuss Financial Considerations Thoroughly

Initiating an open and transparent discussion early on regarding college affordability is crucial. Explore various payment options, such as scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs, and set clear expectations together.

Involve your college students in the financial planning process early to ensure everyone is well-informed and prepared. Creating a spreadsheet outlining the costs of each college and expected debt can aid in decision-making.

It's worth noting that a significant number of U.S. college graduates graduate with substantial student loan debt, emphasizing the importance of proactive financial planning.

5. Encourage and Empower Your Teen During the College Process

Empowering your teen rather than micromanaging their decisions during the college application journey fosters independence and confidence in their choices. One effective method is to motivate them to participate in college campus visits.

Utilizing your knowledge of their preferences, you can assist your teen in comparing and evaluating different college options during these visits. Engaging in campus tours, interacting with student guides, and conversing with faculty members provide insights that brochures or websites may not convey, offering a sense of assurance.

Moreover, these visits serve as opportunities to strengthen your bond and create lasting memories with your teen.

6. Emphasize Finding the Perfect Match

Emphasize the importance of finding a college that aligns with your teen's academic interests, extracurricular activities, location preferences, and campus culture. Engage in collaborative discussions with your teen to identify the key factors crucial to their educational experience. Which aspects of a college are non-negotiable for them?

Encourage trust in your teen's intuition. Each college possesses its own unique energy, a vibe that either resonates or doesn't, according to Lanser's advice. If a college feels like the right fit and aligns with other crucial factors, such as academic offerings and resources, it's likely a suitable choice.