sending hugs to the moms and dads out there

[Anonymous]

I have gone through the process with two kids- and between then watched dozens of their peers go through the process. So, to all the moms and dads waiting for decisions— you’re involved, or you wouldn’t be on this board. If you are here, you are helping your kid make a good decision and supporting them. And it will work out in the end. I’ve seen kids ED into the “dream school” and kids who were crushed but ED/EA rejections but get good matches in RD and kids end up at “safeties”.

And, here is what all the kids had in common— it worked out in the end, and they were excited once college started. Once the kid made a decision, paid the deposit, got on social media, found a roommate, looked at/ registered for classes, bought stuff for their dorm room, went for orientation, etc., they were invested and most ended up very happy and successful where they were. And the few who didn’t transferred and made the most of their second chance.

Your kid's college doesn’t have to be the dream school for them to very well and be very happy. In fact, one of the small handful of transfers I know was a kid who ED’d into their dream school and hated it when they got there.

The list is made. GPA, scores, APs, etc are what they are. The biggest thing you can do to help your kid feel good about their college in June is make peace with your kid going to any school on their list.

Get excited for them and be proud whether their college is Yale or JMU or a SLAC taking 80% of applicants. They will take their cues from you.

And believe— they may not end up where they (or you) wanted. But they will end up in a good place.

Good luck.