Category Archives: Alternatives to College

Alternatives to College, college planning, college prep, parenting

Navigating Your Teen’s Hesitations About College

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hesitations about college
Image by octavio lopez galindo from Pixabay

Hearing your teen say, “I don’t want to go to college,” can be a heart-stopping moment for many parents. This is especially true if college has been a long-anticipated step in your child’s future. However, it’s important to approach this situation with patience and understanding. College may not be right for everyone.

Before the door to higher education closes entirely, there are several steps parents can take. These steps can help their teen reconsider college in a more thoughtful and informed way.

Here are five practical steps to guide you while navigating your teen’s hesitations about college:

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Alternatives to College, careers, online learning

Careers Outside the Traditional College Path

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careers

Obtaining a college degree can be essential for certain top end careers. However, not all well-paid and respectable jobs require a degree. Instead, it may be possible to get your foot in the door through other forms of training or by working your way up from an entry level job. Below are just some of the most surprising jobs that you do not need a college degree to break into.

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Alternatives to College, college planning, college prep, parenting

Motivating an Unmotivated Student Toward the Future

unmotivated student


My son was an unmotivated student. He skated through high school with average grades and didn’t begin to think about college until the spring of his senior year. He decided he wanted to go to a military academy, and of course, it was too late to meet the requirements for application. Panicking about his future, he made the decision to join the Marines; and believe me, I was not a happy parent. In the end, however, it was a good choice for him.

Entering the realm of college preparation can be an overwhelming journey for many students. Some may find themselves unmotivated, dragging their feet, and questioning whether they are even college material. As parents, it’s essential to recognize this struggle and provide the necessary support and encouragement to help your student unlock their full potential.

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Alternatives to College, college guidance, college planning, parenting

No Thank You: Keep Your Unsolicited Advice to Yourself

advice

I spend a good deal of time talking about preparing your student for college and offering good college advice. But believe it or not, that’s not my total focus. My focus is helping parents help their child find the best path after high school graduation. 

It’s because of this focus, I was happy to read a post on Grown and Flown today called: Dear Friends and Family, Please Keep Your Snarky Opinions About My Teen’s College Choice to Yourself.

If you’re on Facebook (where most of us moms hang out) you’ve probably come across posts from proud parents announcing their high school senior’s college plans. Hiding in the shadows (and they shouldn’t be) are those parents whose senior chose to take a different path after graduation. 

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