Advice for Parents
Parent COLLEGE PRESENTATION
Senior Night Presentation 2022 - new one.pptx
What college admissions offices value and expect - and don't expect - from students during the pandemic.
“Does test optional really mean test optional?”
The answer, simply put, is: YES.
HELPFUL TIPS FOR SURVIVING THE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS
Take a deep breath! Whether you have been through the college application process before or not - each cycle brings new challenges! In the post-COVID application process everything has changed - SAT/ACTs, college fairs, campus visits, etc. Be open and have options as things will continue to evolve.
Create a SCOIR account. First, your student needs to formally invite you through their own SCOIR account. Once you are linked, you can access and share information.
Complete the "Parent Brag Sheet" on SCOIR. This provides your son or daughter's Guidance Counselor with more insight about the student from the parent perspective and can be used in the counselor recommendation letter. Deadline 7/15/2022
Encourage your student to reach out to admission offices. More than ever, connecting with colleges both in-person and virtually and fostering relationships with admission counselors have taken on a new meaning as colleges struggle to predict enrollment.
Be aware of deadlines, but don't drive yourself crazy working too far ahead. The Guidance Office only needs a two weeks notice to send supporting documents. However, we do encourage students to write their essay over the summer as it will ease the pressure in the fall.
When researching colleges, be sure to ask colleges what they expect from students in regards to their COVID protocols. Some colleges require vaccines and testings, while others do not. For some, these protocols can make or break enrollment decisions.
Build boundaries and set realistic expectations for the college application list. If you have reservations about distance, college size or financial costs, have these discussions early and shape the college list accordingly.
Develop a balanced list of colleges to apply to (reach/match/safety) - and look at each college individually and ask your student, if you do not get into any other college, woud you still want to go there? If the answer is no, you probably shouldn't be applying. There is no magic application number - quality over quantity.
If you plan to apply for financial aid, get organized now with your tax documents so that you can begin applying when the forms officially open on October 1.
Listen. Take a step back and really listen to what your student's goals are. College is expensive and so are mistakes. You all want to focus on finding the "best fit" school - not the best name school.
Be patient. Give hugs. Separate your worries from your students. Stay openminded. This is an exciting time and a stressful time all at once for everyone involved. Take everything one step at a time and enjoy the journey.