Submit

Embarking on the college admissions journey is a significant chapter in a student’s life, and as a parent, your involvement is crucial. This guide aims to highlight how parents can effectively and positively contribute to their child’s college admissions process.

Providing Emotional Support:

One of the most important roles as a parent is offering emotional support. The college admissions process can be stressful, and having a supportive figure to provide encouragement and a listening ear is invaluable. Celebrate their efforts and be there to uplift them during challenging times.

Facilitating Academic Preparation:

Encouraging good study habits and helping your child stay organized with their academic responsibilities is key. While it’s important to be supportive, also encourage them to take the lead in managing their academic workload and preparation for standardized exams.

Guiding Extracurricular Involvement:

Assist your child in choosing extracurricular activities that reflect their interests and passions. These activities are an opportunity for students to showcase their unique skills and personalities. However, avoid over-scheduling and respect their choices and limits.

Assisting with College Research:

Help your child in researching colleges by discussing factors like academic programs, campus environment and location. Encourage them to explore a wide range of schools and respect their preferences, guiding them to make informed decisions.

Encouraging Independence:

It’s crucial to strike a balance between helping your child and allowing them to take ownership of the college admissions process. This independence is a valuable part of their growth and preparation for college life.

Seeking Professional Guidance:

Engage AcceptU, whose former admissions officers can provide your family with additional support and expertise. This can be beneficial, while ensuring that your child remains actively involved and at the center of the process.

As a parent, your role in the college admissions process is to be a guide, a supporter and an encourager. It’s about helping your child navigate this journey with confidence, providing support when needed and allowing them the space to grow and make decisions independently. 

This experience is not just about gaining admission to college; it’s about preparing your child for future success and independence.

About the author
Marc Zawel

As author of Untangling the Ivy League, Marc literally wrote the book on gaining admission to highly selective colleges. He earned a BA from Cornell University – where he met AcceptU’s co-founder – and an MBA from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. At UNC, Marc chaired the admissions advisory board; he has also conducted alumni interviews for Cornell for more than fifteen years.

Join an upcoming webinar
Download a resource guide