Don’t make me turn this car around!!!
(8 Things Parents Can Do on the Road to Higher Education)

Remember that it’s not all about the bumper sticker.

Finding a good fit should be the most important criteria students use in identifying colleges and universities. Rankings are useful in providing possibilities, but visiting campuses and truly understanding a student’s profile in relation to the campus’ criteria is critical.

It’s not all about sticker price, either.

Millions of dollars in federal, state and private monies are available to students. Parents are often surprised to hear that the most expensive college can be quite affordable because of financial aid. While we encourage students to find a financial safety school (a school the family can afford without much financial aid) they should not limit their options base on cost alone.

Give them the keys.

You have already done the work of supporting their personal growth and educational aspirations, but your job is not done. While students need to drive the college admissions process, they rely on you to give them the keys to do so. Provide the support they crave. Remember, while your son or daughter is no longer in middle school, they still require your support, just may be less likely to ask for it.

Enforce the curfew.

A great role for parents is that of deadline police. Help your student to organize the application process. Creating a college calendar devoted to college related “stuff” is one way to do so. Gentle reminders about upcoming admissions and financial aid deadlines are important. As we tell the students, this is one time when a note from mom or dad isn’t going to make a difference. If you are late you risk not being admitted or not being considered for your maximum eligibility for financial aid.

Ask for directions.

Utilize the resources available to help you plan and pay for college. From the guidance office to the financial aid office, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t make assumptions about the best places or the requirements to get there. Your guidance counselor is the guide you need to help you map out a plan. We’re also here to provide support, resources, presentations and materials to New Hampshire students and parents. Don’t hesitate to contact the Center for College Planning at the NHHEAF Network if we can be of service to you. Our experienced counselors are also here to help support, guide and direct you.

Consult the map.

Make sure your student is on track to graduate with many opportunities. Know that meeting graduation requirements doesn’t always mean meeting college entrance requirements. By mapping out your student’s journey with the guidance office, you’ll preserve options for higher education.

Buckle your seatbelt.

College applications can be complicated, stressful and entirely overwhelming. There may be moments when you don’t recognize your child! Help your student to keep perspective. Find ways to ease the burden such as offering your help in reviewing the essays, monitoring deadlines and willingness to travel to visit college campuses. It is a short but intense ride.

Enjoy the ride.

You’ve been there for every milestone – the first step, the first word, the first day of kindergarten and now here you are: your child’s graduation from high school and application for college admission! Congratulations. Due in part to your support – fostering their personal growth and nurturing their talents, they are at the point of pursuing their own dreams.