Written by Marc Lehman,
Owner of U ARE HEARD LLC
Parents of high school seniors may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to prepare their child for college. As their child’s education journey is coming to a close, it’s natural to have some anxieties about what the future holds. However, there are some practical steps that parents and their seniors can take to make the transition to college easier. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some tips for seniors as they prepare for college and how parents can support their child throughout the process.
1) Stay Focused on Academics – High school seniors must maintain their focus on academics and finish strong in their final year of high school. Make sure your child is taking challenging courses where possible, as this will help prepare them for college-level coursework. Encourage them to stay ahead of their assignments and study every day to ensure they are prepared for tests and projects.
2) Plan Ahead – Planning is essential when it comes to transitioning to college. Help your child research colleges of interest and familiarize them with admission requirements and deadlines. Encourage them to visit colleges virtually or in-person and take part in tours, information sessions, and other events.
3) Develop Life Skills – College students must develop a wide range of life skills to be successful. Encourage your senior to take on more responsibility at home and school, such as working a part-time job, volunteering, or taking leadership roles in clubs. Encourage them to be independent with laundry, cooking, and budgeting.
4) Build Relationships – College is a great opportunity to make new friends and build connections that last a lifetime. Encourage your child to meet new people, join clubs or organizations, and attend events. Similarly, seniors should take time to strengthen relationships with mentors such as teachers, counselors, and coaches.
5) Practice Communication – College demands effective communication skills. Encourage your child to practice writing, speaking, and listening skills. They should know how to effectively communicate with roommates, professors, and other college staff.
As a parent of a high school senior, the best thing you can do for your child is to provide them with support and guidance throughout the college preparation process. By staying focused on academics, planning ahead, developing life skills, building relationships, and practicing communication, your child can make a successful transition to college life. Encourage your student to take advantage of the resources available and to ask for help whenever they need it. With these practical tips, your child can be well-prepared for the next phase of their educational journey.