College Fears: How to Help Your Teen

College Fears: How to Help Your Teen

Applying to college can set off a lot of emotional alarms for your teen. The reality of growing up and probably going away to school is daunting to some; others worry about measuring up. Here are some specific concerns kids air over and over:

  • “I won't get in anywhere.” There's a school for everyone, but you have to be realistic. Encourage your child to apply to the reach schools (schools that may be tough for your teen to get into), but to have some safeties as well.
  • “I have to know what I'm going to be before I apply to college.” Nothing could be further from the truth. While having a general field of interest doesn't hurt, it isn't necessary. (For example, only 30 percent of kids who start out in engineering stay with it all the way through.)
  • “I won't be able to handle the work.” Tell your teen that if she gets in, she'll be able to handle it—that's what the application process screens for.

What you worry about:

  • “If only his test scores were higher…” No matter what his academic ability, there is a school that's right for your teen.
  • “Connections will help.” Applying as a “legacy” (to be a second- or third-generation family member to attend a school) definitely helps for admissions; ask for statistics on how many legacies are admitted each year.

Worrying can lead to procrastination, which can just make things worse (applications may be filed late, or, in rolling admission schools, the classes may fill up). Talk to your teen about what is bothering him, and see if the two of you can come up with a solution.


Previous:

Next:

  • How to Help Your Child Overcome Test Anxiety
    While having to take a test isnt the end of the world, to many children it might actually feel that way. Some children can feel so much anxiety at test-taking time that they will develop physical symptoms, nervousness and depression. If your child su
  • How to Prepare for a Hurricane
    Before the hurricaneHow to Prepare for a Hurricane BEFORE Hurricanes can be dangerous killers. Learning the hurricane warning messages and planning ahead can reduce the chances of injury or major property damage.Plan an evacuation route.Contact the l
  • Who Loves You?
    Who Loves You?  Materials Paper Pen Markers and/or stickers for decoratingDirections Ask your child, Who loves you? and write down her answer. Ask, Who else loves you? and write down each name, then read her the list when she is finished. Top the li