11 New Year Resolutions For Parents of Teenagers Applying To College

The new year is a time for fresh starts, and what better way to start the year off right than by making some resolutions for yourself as a parent of a teenager applying to college?

Here are 11 resolutions that will help you navigate the college admissions process with ease, and hopefully lead to your child thriving in the college they choose:.


  1. Encourage independence: While you can offer support and guidance, it's important to allow your teenager to take ownership of the process and make their own decisions.
  2. Stay organized: The college application process can be overwhelming, so it's important to stay organized and keep track of deadlines, documents, and other important details.
  3. Encourage your teenager to focus on their studies: Encourage your teenager to prioritize their academics and work hard in school, as this will be an important factor in their college applications.
  4. Help your teenager develop good time management skills: Teaching your teenager good time management skills will help them balance their schoolwork with extracurricular activities and other commitments.
  5. Encourage your teenager to explore their interests: Encourage your teenager to explore their interests and consider pursuing them in college. This can help them find a college that is a good fit for them, and a career path that they are passionate about.
  6. Help your teenager set realistic goals: Encourage your teenager to set realistic goals for themselves and work towards achieving them. This will help them develop a sense of purpose and focus as they apply to college.
  7. Encourage your teenager to stay positive: The college application process can be stressful, so it's important to encourage your teenager to stay positive and keep things in perspective. Remind them that there are many great colleges and universities out there, and that they will find the right fit for them.
  8. Communicate with your teenager: Make sure to communicate with your teenager throughout the process, and encourage them to be involved in making decisions about their future.
  9. Research financial aid options: Start researching financial aid options early to ensure that you understand the costs associated with college and the resources available to help pay for it.
  10. Encourage extracurricular activities: Encourage your teenager to participate in extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, or volunteering, as these can help round out their college application and make them a more attractive candidate.
  11. Seek out resources and support: Don't be afraid to seek out resources and support, whether from your high school counselor, a college admissions advisor, or online resources. There are many people and resources available to help you and your teenager navigate the college application process.


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