I think students are required to know so much these days, and at a younger and younger age.
Yes, it is true they are learning math at a much faster pace, yet they are also asked what they want to study or be when they grow up as early as 8th grade.
As parents you wonder, how is anyone supposed to know that at age 12 when some adults don't even know that? It is mind boggling at times that so much pressure is put on young adults.
By the time they are 16, they are asked to look years ahead, when they are so focused on things such as when they will get their driver's license and will they have a car to drive.
It can be a difficult time and process.
Sometimes the process of choosing a college to attend takes care of itself and other times it can be complicated and confusing.
How do you help the student who has multiple options choose the best school for them? What about the student who is procrastinating because they are perfectly happy and content right where they are? The pressure to make the right choice doesn't help and making significant decisions like these can be very stressful for all involved.
So, they have heard back from all the colleges applied to and have received information about any scholarships they have received.
The list has been narrowed down to the top 2 or 3 contenders, but how to choose? How can you help with this process? The first thing to do is go visit these colleges, especially any of the top choices that you may not have visited before.
Do your best to go on a day that school is in session.
You can see the other students, talk to some if you want to and see how friendly they are.
To actually walk around campus and see how it feels to you can be a big help in your final decision.
You will just know one of them feels like home.
Do you or your child know anyone who currently goes to that school that you can connect with? They can be a good source to answers to your questions and they can help you feel more comfortable.
They can show you some of their favorite spots to eat, hang out and study.
Look for any features that stand out.
Are there any must haves that really make one school standout above the others? Don't worry so much right now about your major or your field of study.
All of these schools you are considering should have the program you are interested in.
Unless one school is a real stand out in your field of study, I'd say keep in mind that many students change their major.
It's natural to change your mind or direction.
Focus on where you felt the most comfortable, where you felt most like it was home and where you most want to make your home for the next four years.
Write down notes and impressions about each school, and do so soon after your visit while they are still fresh in your mind.
I had my daughter do this on the way home from each visit, so she wouldn't forget or get confused.
Consider distance from home.
For some kids they want to go far away from home and still others want to stay close to home.
Some have no idea.
You don't have to go 100s of mile away in order to feel independent and on your own.
You can be 30 minutes from home and feel as though you are far away.
Just work that out before you make your final decision.
Remember, to go with your intuition or your gut feeling.
First impressions are important and they are revealing as well.
Have confidence that you will make the best choice that is right for you.
Keep in mind as well that there is always a way to work things out.