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.
1. Brainstorm Essay Ideas
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.
Parent Tip: Ask questions like “What’s something you’re proud of?” or “When did you overcome a challenge?”
2. Build a Master Timeline
Work with your teen to create a timeline that includes key deadlines for applications, scholarships, and financial aid. Break the process into smaller goals like drafting the first essay or updating a resume.
Parent Tip: Use a shared digital calendar with reminders for each deadline.
3. Draft a College Resume
Help your student list their academic achievements, extracurriculars, volunteer work, and part-time jobs. Make sure it’s formatted clearly and concisely.
Parent Tip: Review and proofread together. Suggest phrasing without rewriting for them.
4. Prep Teacher Recommenders
Encourage your student to think about which junior-year teachers know them best and might write a strong recommendation. Help them prepare a brag sheet outlining their strengths and goals.
Parent Tip: Role-play how to ask respectfully and emphasize giving plenty of lead time.
5. Learn About Application Platforms
Introduce your teen to tools like the Common App and Coalition App. Guide them through creating an account and filling out the basic profile and education sections.
Parent Tip: Walk through the platforms together and discuss what’s coming next.
Think of yourself as their college coach. You can be an encourager, a wealth of support, a sounding board and a voice of wisdom as they move toward their senior year.
Call to Action: Grab our free Summer College Planning Guide for Parents and get a jumpstart on application season before senior year even begins.