I have been a college admissions consultant/counselor for almost a decade and I can now say that there has been one question parents often ask me at our initial meeting: “What does my teen have to do to get into college?” Or “What is the recipe for my teen to get admitted?”
These types of questions can be answered in a simple way. I tell the parent that the teen should be themselves to their best ability. And here is the recipe to do that:
R: Reflect: Self-reflect: The teen should reflect on what they find purpose in doing. Are they an artist, performer, dancer or singer? What about an athlete or maybe they started their own business walking pets. Whatever it may be, they should pursue it because it gives them purpose in life. When teens find purpose, they feel needed, self-confident, important and passionate about life. This, in turn, makes them feel ready for the next step in life: college. And this will show in their application.
E: Educate yourself about the right level of academics and academic rigor. This is very important in the admissions evaluation. This ingredient in the recipe for success in college admissions allows you to make sure you are taking courses in high school at the appropriate level. It’s important you are taking the courses colleges and universities look for, not just fulfill your high school graduation requirements; these can often be two totally different lists. Review course lists and analyze which courses you should register for and speak with your school counselor.
C: Comprehensive College List: It is imperative that a teen has a well balanced and realistic college list. This would include likely, target and reach schools. Use the latest admit rates to analyze and create a list with your teen. A well balanced list will give your teen a successful college admissions experience.
I: Itinerary: Use a timeline through the college admissions process. This will keep the teen organized when writing their college essays, completing applications, requesting letters of recommendation and registering for standardized tests, etc. When a teen is organized they will feel grounded and self-confident throughout the college admissions journey.
P: Prioritize and manage expectations: Life always has bumps, twists, and turns and so does the college admissions journey. Know that your teen might change their mind (a few times) during the process and that’s totally normal and OK. They are only 16, 17 or 18 years-old! And it’s OK to not know what they want to major in as well. Show them support and grace as they navigate entering into young adulthood. They need all the support possible in order to fly.
E: Empathy: As their parent, give empathy and grace throughout the college admissions journey. This is one, if the not the biggest decision your teen will make in their short life. They, at times, need time to evaluate, assess, and digest this decision. Have empathy for them.