1. Start the conversation early (but don’t overdo it)

   It’s helpful to start chatting about college around sophomore year—just don’t turn it into a daily topic. Waiting until the summer before senior year can feel overwhelming with so many decisions to make. A few early conversations go a long way!

   
   

2. Sneak in college visits whenever you travel

   On your next family vacation, why not swing by a local college? You don’t have to schedule a formal tour right away. Just drive through, grab lunch, and walk around. This helps teens start thinking about what kind of campus feels right—big, small, city, rural, etc. Save the formal tours for junior year!

   
   

3. Set a "college talk day" (like Sundays)

   Talking about college non-stop is a sure way to drive your teen up the wall. Instead, agree on one day a week where you’re free to bring it up—no guilt, no eye rolls, no stress.

   
   

4. Discuss finances upfront

   Be clear early on about how much you can contribute and what’s realistic. Your teen isn’t too young to understand financial boundaries, and it's better to have this chat now than after acceptance letters arrive! Use net price calculators on college websites to get a rough idea of costs.

   
   

5. Avoid the "back in my day" comparisons

   Resist the urge to tell them how easy it was to get into your college. What was considered an easy school to get into in the 1990s could be highly selective now. Things have changed, and it might just add pressure. Encourage family members to keep questions light, too. They’ll appreciate the space.

   
   

6. Expect them to change their minds (a lot)

   It’s totally normal for teens to flip-flop about what they want in a school. One day it’s a city campus, the next they’re dreaming of a rural one. Let the process happen—it’s part of figuring things out.

   
   

7. Let them steer the ship (but help navigate)

   While teens should drive their own decisions, remember they’re still only 17. Offer guidance, be part of the conversation, and weigh in on big decisions—after all, this could be one of your family’s biggest investments.

   
   

8. Remind them there’s a school for everyone

   There are over 2,600 four-year colleges in the U.S., so there’s definitely a good fit for your teen. It doesn’t have to be a big-name school to provide a great education. What really matters is what they make of the experience.

   
   

9. Consider a gap year if they’re not ready

   If you feel your teen needs more time, a gap year can be a great option. College is a big adjustment, and it’s OK if they’re not ready right away. Better to wait than rush into something for which they’re unprepared.

   
   

10. Hire a college consultant to handle the tough stuff

    Navigating the college admissions process can feel like a full-time job, and it’s easy for emotions to run high. An independent consultant can step in as a neutral party, helping your teen with everything from narrowing down schools to fine-tuning their application. Often, students feel more comfortable asking questions or seeking advice from someone who isn’t their parent. This takes the pressure off both of you, allowing you to focus on being supportive rather than the one doing the nagging. Plus, consultants can keep track of deadlines and details, so nothing slips through the cracks! Contact me here and let's talk about how I can help.

Take a deep breath—you’ve got this!