Suzanne Shaffer

Texas

College Prep Expert, Blogger, Freelance Writer, (https://t.co/mg9C7OZvrf) Author, Love helping parents navigate the college maze, parent, grandparent, lover of words

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Articles

Legal Documents Every Parent Should Prepare Before College

4 weeks ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

When your child turns 18 and heads off to college, it marks a big milestone—for both of you. They’re gaining independence, starting a new chapter, and legally becoming an adult. But here’s something many parents don’t realize until it’s too late: once your child turns 18, you no longer have automatic access to their medical, financial, or academic information—even in emergencies.
Programs and Scholarships for Survivors of Fallen Heroes

1 month ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

Memorial Day is a time for remembering the brave men and women who gave their lives while serving in the U.S. military. It’s more than just a long weekend—it’s a chance to pause, reflect, and honor the sacrifices that made our freedoms possible. If your parent gave the ultimate sacrifice with their life, you have my gratitude and the gratitude of all of us who enjoy freedom in this country.
How to Talk to Your Teen About College Without the Eye Rolls

1 month ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

Let’s be honest: bringing up college with your teen can feel like walking through a minefield. One wrong step—too pushy, too soon, too often—and you’re met with a dramatic sigh, a sarcastic “I know,” or the dreaded eye roll. But here’s the good news: with the right approach, you can talk to your teen about college in a way that invites conversation instead of shutting it down. And May is the perfect time to start.
Parenting Teens: From Helicopter to Co-Pilot

1 month ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

As your teen enters high school or begins planning for life after graduation, your parenting role needs to evolve. You’re no longer in the driver’s seat—but you’re not out of the car either. Welcome to the co-pilot phase. In this stage, your support is still crucial, but it looks different. You’re no longer managing every detail of their life. Instead, you’re coaching, encouraging, and stepping back—just enough for them to take the lead. Let’s talk about what this shift looks like and why it matters.
Dear Graduate: A Letter to My Son

1 month ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

It’s that time of year. Parents are feeling the emotions as so many have a graduate in the house and are looking toward the future ahead. I thought it might be cathartic to share a letter I wrote to my son when he graduated from high school years ago. It might give you inspiration to craft your own. Who knows, they might actually save it !Dear son,You did it.
Planning for College: 5 Stress-Free Tips

1 month ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

Planning for college can feel like juggling flaming torches while walking a tightrope, but panicking never helped anyone get into their dream school. It doesn’t have to be a panic. College is the place where you are aiming to kickstart your career. And with a few smart steps and a dash of chill out, you can tackle the whole process without losing your mind or your GPA.
Navigating the Wait List

2 months ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

If your student has been put on the wait list at one of their top-choice schools, take a deep breath—you are definitely not alone. Many families go through this, and while it can feel like you’re stuck in a holding pattern, there are productive and empowering next steps you can take together. Many students have been waitlisted at their dream school, this isn’t the end of the road—it’s just a detour.
College Application Season Starts Now for Rising Seniors

2 months ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

It may still be spring, but college application season is just around the corner. The more your junior does now, the less stressful senior year will be. And summer is the best time to start the process. Here’s how to set them up for a strong start this summer. Encourage your student to reflect on meaningful life moments and write down possible personal statement topics. These early brainstorms can turn into solid essay drafts later on.
Key Things Seniors Must Do Before Graduation

2 months ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

As graduation draws near, your senior is almost at the finish line—but a few final tasks still need your attention. Helping your teen wrap up their college plans now can prevent headaches later. Here’s your parent-friendly checklist of what to tackle this spring. 1. Finalize the College Decision Support your student as they compare financial aid offers and consider how each campus feels in terms of community, academics, and future opportunities.
The Wellness Girl’s Guide to College Success

Mar 28, 2025 | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

Want to thrive in college? Looking for inspiration? Meet the book every college girl needs in her backpack. The Wellness Girl’s Guide to College Success — a powerful, uplifting, and deeply relatable guide is written by none other than college senior Michelle Sylvester. Michelle isn’t just any author—she’s an actual college student. A current senior at Northeastern University in Boston, Michelle wrote this guide from her heart, strictly based on her own transformative journey of navigating college.