Helping Your Kids with College Applications in Atlanta
Senior year is a very exciting time for Atlanta students but can also come with lots of new thing to do and important decisions to make. It is important to be surrounding by the support of family and friends that will help navigate the time with ease.
Helping your kids during the application process can be overwhelming for both students and parents. Here’s a few tips that might be beneficial when you are offering your kids support without taking over:
Be Supportive and Encourage Independence
- Listen actively: Understand your child’s goals, dreams, and concerns.
- Offer guidance: Provide information and resources, but let them make the final decisions.
- Encourage self-advocacy: Help them develop communication and problem-solving skills.
- Manage expectations: Remind them that college is just one step in their life journey.
Practical Support
- Organize and plan: Create a timeline, gather necessary documents, and set reminders.
- Financial planning: Research financial aid options, scholarships, and college costs.
- Proofreading: Review essays and applications for clarity and grammar.
- College visits: Accompany your child on college visits if they desire.
Avoid Overinvolvement
- Respect boundaries: Allow your child to take ownership of the process.
- Avoid ghostwriting: Let their voice shine through in essays and applications.
- Manage your emotions: Don’t project your own desires onto your child.
Key Areas to Focus On
- College List: Help narrow down options based on interests, location, and academic fit.
- Standardized Tests: Provide support and resources for test preparation.
- Essays: Encourage brainstorming and offer feedback on drafts.
- Financial Aid: Explore scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities.
- Applications: Assist with organization and deadlines, but let your child complete the forms.
Remember: The goal is to equip your child with the tools and confidence to navigate the college application process successfully. By striking a balance between support and independence, you can help them achieve their dreams. For a list of Atlanta Colleges and Universities please click here
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