Parenting for College

As a parent with two adult kids, a son and a daughter, I've picked up some important insights over the years. The biggest takeaway for me was realizing that I didn’t have all the answers and that I had many questions. I made use of various resources that I gathered from my own parents, insightful books, and experienced fellow parents who had navigated the challenges of parenting before me. There were times I got things right, and other times I stumbled. However, one thing became clear: having the right tools increases the chances of your successes outnumbering your failures. Also, being well-prepared can help you tackle upcoming challenges. One of the most significant challenges I faced was what I like to refer to as “the college maze.” I was unprepared for how extensive the preparation would be and how crucial it was to achieving a successful outcome. I looked everywhere for guidance specifically aimed at parents but found very little. While there were a few books on scholarships, they were overwhelming and as thick as a phone book.

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Key Things Seniors Must Do Before Graduation

1 week 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

4 weeks ago | 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.
When Your Teen Gets Into Their Dream College-But You Can’t Afford It

4 weeks ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

When my daughter opened the email, I saw the joy light up her face. Congratulations! She got in. She did it. Her dream college, the one she had been talking about for years, was offering her a spot. For a moment, everything felt perfect. I let myself soak in her excitement. I hugged her tightly. I even let myself imagine what it would be like—move-in day, walking around that beautiful campus, wearing the school sweatshirt with pride.
BunkTrunk: Keep College Valuables Safe

1 month ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

Before you know it, college move-in day will be here. Students will be deciding which items to take to college and which should be left behind. Knowing the nature of a college dorm room, students are hesitant to take anything valuable with them to college. Even with supposed secure dorm entrances and locks on doors, most students do not take advantage of these safeguards.
Rolling Admission: A Stress-Free Path to College Acceptance

1 month ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

The college application process can be overwhelming, especially for students who are still undecided, have faced rejection, or simply want to reduce stress. Fortunately, rolling admission provides a flexible and less nerve-wracking way to gain acceptance into college. If you or your student are feeling the pressure of deadlines and decision-making, rolling admission might be the perfect solution.
Students Express Angst on Reddit About College Decisions

1 month ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

If you’ve been scrolling through Reddit lately as I have or talking to high school seniors, you know that waiting for college decisions can feel like absolute torture. The uncertainty, the constant “where are you going to college?” questions, and the fear of rejection make this one of the most emotionally exhausting times of your life. You’re not alone in feeling this way. Some students are feeling hopeless. Others have stopped sleeping entirely.
Helping Your Teen Cope with College Rejections

1 month ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

College acceptance season can be an emotional rollercoaster. After months of hard work, applications, and anticipation, receiving a rejection letter can feel like a crushing blow to your student — and to you as a parent. While it’s hard to see your teen disappointed, this moment also presents an opportunity to teach resilience, encourage self-reflection, and support them as they regroup and move forward.
Navigating Tough College Decisions: A Parent’s Guide

2 months ago | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

Choosing a college is one of the biggest decisions your student will make, but as a parent, you play a crucial role in guiding them through the financial and logistical challenges that come with it. What happens when your child’s college plans don’t match your budget or comfort level? Let’s tackle some common concerns and explore ways to navigate these tough college decisions with your student. It’s a situation many families face: your student wants a school that’s out of budget.
Understanding the Nuances of Applying for Financial Aid

Jan 20, 2025 | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

Navigating the financial aid process can feel like wading through a maze of forms, deadlines, and unfamiliar terms. It can seem overwhelming for many parents, especially first-time or first-generation college families. But with a little guidance, you can make a significant difference in your student’s ability to afford college. Let’s break it down step by step to help you confidently tackle the process. The first step in applying for financial aid is understanding the forms you must complete.
Your Guide to Navigating 2025: Advice for Parents of College-Bound Teens

Jan 8, 2025 | parentingforcollege.com | Suzanne Shaffer

As 2025 begins, parents of college-bound teens are entering a pivotal year filled with decisions, deadlines, and opportunities. Whether your teen is just starting the college application process or finalizing their plans, here’s how you can support them every step of the way. 1. Stay Informed About Changes in College AdmissionsThe landscape of college admissions continues to evolve.