Common Questions and Concerns Parents Have About College:
What decisions need to be made and when?
Realistically students are making college-related decisions from day one of high school. The curriculum they choose, the study habits they use, and the amount of effort reflected in their grades and extracurriculars build the foundation for future options.
If you are later into your high school career we will start from where you are at and plan a future that incorporates your achievements and aspirations. High school is challenging both academically and often socially. Transcripts do not need to be all As to have college options.
How many schools and which schools should my child apply to?
This is an individual question because it depends largely on the student’s criteria and track record. In general, I try to limit kids to around 9-12. But that is 9-12 of the RIGHT schools that are carefully selected to blend reach, 50-50 chances, and safety schools. There will likely be schools you haven’t heard of in that mix, but what matters is that they are places your student will flourish (and might earn some serious merit scholarships!)
I am worried my kid won’t get in anywhere!
Will your child graduate high school with a 2.3 or above?
If you answered yes, there is an extremely high probability I can find colleges that will accept your child. Whether or not they are the right fit is a different question, but your child is likely eligible. And with so many schools now test-optional there are even more choices.
Is my kid even ready for college? What about a gap year?
Sometimes a gap year (taking time off between high school graduation and college) is a great idea. Sometimes it is a disaster. The success of the gap year and the likelihood of attending college depends largely on a detailed plan and the student executing it. Assuming college is the endgame, there is much to discuss before making this decision. We can assist with finding gap year resources.
Not sure if we can afford college. Is Community College a good alternative?
Maybe. California community colleges have some downright stellar professors. The Promise Program covers tuition for two years for high school students and looks like a no-brainer way to save money. But there is a lot we don’t know, including how many who start actually end up transferring and getting a four-year degree in four years. Or at all, for that matter. We have no data beyond how many students graduate each year with the transfer agreement requirements met. That may be the end of their story or the beginning, data doesn’t exist to tell us.
Nationally, students who start at a four-year school have a higher graduation rate than those who start at a community college and transfer. Also, keep in mind that taking longer than four years means you not only pay more but are losing out on job income for years five and beyond.
We will definitely talk about the pros and cons and how they relate to your specific student.
There is a lot I don’t know, and I really don’t want to argue with my teenager over yet another thing!
We consistently hear from parents, “I swear I told her/him/them that!” We believe you. But telling is different than hearing, and sometimes the most brilliant parents can’t convince their teenagers to follow their advice. Believe it or not, this is typical brain development. Frustrating but normal. Let us manage it for you. It is amazing how different kids can be when their parents aren’t “the boss.” We have teenagers, too. We get it!
And yet total strangers from YouTube have credibility, right?
We are the happy blend of the credible expert with personal accessibility, and they don’t have to live with us. We can hold them accountable without arguments. It constantly amazes parents when we tell them how cooperative and on top of things their student is. Really, most kids have good company manners. They just need to assert their independence at home.
My name is Holly McCord Duncan and I am a college expert.
I am a former admission officer, have a Masters in college student development, and more than 20 years of higher education experience. Let me put your worries to rest. Schedule your free consultation in the form below and let me show you how to reduce the stress.
I can find the right school where your kid will THRIVE, not just survive.
Check out these topics to learn more!
These Are LOTS of My Favorite Things!
This is an ever-evolving list and is almost entirely outside links. This results from curiosity, nerdiness, and a bit of obsession (ok, maybe more than a tad!) I receive no compensation or benefits from any of these sites and make no guarantees of their content. My official disclaimer in this litigious society is that you…
I Go Through the Application Process Annually – Here Is What I Wish Families Knew.
For parents starting the process of college searching here is some perspective from a former college admission officer and current independent college counselor. You go through this process once or twice for most people. I go through it annually. Stellar Students and Highly Rejective SchoolsYou may have that student who has straight As in highly…
College Workshops – New dates added!
(Imagine an image of Phineus and Ferb here, I didn’t want to get sued by Disney!) Financial Aid 101, The Less Stressful Journey To College, Strengths Finder Assessment, How to Build A College List, How To Write Essays! Understanding Financial Aid is the foundation of the college financial aid world. I provide tools to help…