If your teenage son or daughter is a junior or senior in high school choosing which colleges to apply to, both of you may be feeling quite a bit of stress. To be a bit apprehensive is entirely normal, as getting into a reputable college is a goal that you want to see accomplished, but there are certainly ways the stress levels can be reduced.
Here are some great tips on how you can reduce tension when it comes to your teen applying for college:
Be on top of the prerequisites for college. Make sure your teens have all the prerequisites for applying for admission to colleges. Double check to see that the paperwork is in order and that they've already completed the classes necessary for admission. If this is not the case, rest assured that there are options for passing the courses they need by utilizing the services of
online high schools, like James Madison High School. Simply make a phone call and you will be presented with an arrangement that will largely benefit your teen.
Speak with a guidance counselor - Make time to speak to the guidance counselor with your teen and have a conversation about the college application process. Let your son or daughter lead the conversation unless he or she specifically asks you to lead the way. Ask questions and allow the counselor to give you strategies and tips to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
Space out college visits - If you plan on visiting potential colleges, space them out so that you and your teen do not get overwhelmed by too much at one time.
Get familiar with financial resources - Take some time to learn about the various resources out there, such as grants and scholarships that assist with college tuition. You may also discuss such resources with the guidance counselor.
For the
homeschooled teens who chose online high school - Homeschooled teens and parents spend a lot of time together, so both may feel the tension a bit more. Rest assured that the majority of colleges honor and gladly welcome homeschoolers, as they have proven to do quite well in college. If you or your homeschooler are stressed out while applying to colleges, do your best to relax and trust the process. Have open and honest communication regarding college choices, fears, or any concerns.
The transition of online high school to college can bring on a bit of tension, but it is also a very exciting time. Take some deep breaths and do your best to relieve tensions and trust that your teen will choose and get into the best college for him or her. Allow both of you to adjust to the changes and get to know each other better, cultivating a deeper and more fulfilling relationship.
