As part of our College Readiness series for parents, I wanted to share some insights about the pivotal junior year of high school. When my own child entered their junior year, I found myself questioning my role and responsibilities. How can I best support my student, and what do I need to know as the parent of an impending college student?
Today, I want to discuss these questions and more. If you’re wondering what you need to do as a parent of a high school junior to prepare for the college process, you’re in the right place. Let’s get started.
Junior Year: Where to Begin?
When I first Googled “What does my kid need to know junior year?” I was overwhelmed. There were lists of things like building resumes, going on visits, and looking at internships. It made me pause and think, “Is all of this necessary?”
Drawing from my experience as a mother of three and a psychologist who works with adolescents, I’ve identified three main areas to focus on during junior year. These are manageable categories that won’t overwhelm you or your child.
- Resume Building The first topic that often causes stress is resume building. Colleges today are not looking for a laundry list of activities. They prefer to see dedication and genuine interest in a few areas. Jobs, long-term commitments to a team or club, and community service all count. The key is to encourage your child to find what they love and stick with it.
- Researching Colleges and Majors Researching colleges and potential majors can be anxiety-inducing. Use your child’s interests and activities to help them find their niche. Whether they know exactly what they want to do or have no idea, starting with what they enjoy can guide the search process. Discuss what they like about school, work, and extracurricular activities to narrow down potential colleges and majors.
- Parental Role: Support and Encourage It’s crucial to support and encourage your child without imposing your expectations on them. Reflect on your own desires and ensure they align with what’s best for your child. Open a dialogue with them about their interests and observations, and involve them in the decision-making process. This helps build trust and ensures you’re working together as a team.
Encouraging Curiosity and Independence
Encouragement is vital during this period. Help your child explore various roles and experiences, whether it’s a job, an internship, or a volunteer position. Emphasize curiosity and personal growth over meeting specific expectations. This approach not only reduces stress but also helps them develop a sense of self-awareness and independence.
Understanding Their Preferences
Discuss preferences such as geography, school size, and potential majors. Whether your child wants to stay close to home or explore the country, understanding their reasons and preferences can guide the college search. It’s about finding a place where they will thrive both academically and personally.
Reflect and Adjust
Lastly, take time to reflect on your own expectations and how they might influence your child’s journey. Tune into what your child needs and wants, and be ready to adjust your approach. It’s about supporting them in finding their path, not reliving your own experiences through them.
Final Thoughts
Junior year is a significant time for both parents and students. By focusing on these key areas, you can help your child navigate this crucial year without unnecessary stress. Encourage their curiosity, support their interests, and involve them in the process. Together, you’ll make this journey a positive and productive experience.
Feel free to share your thoughts and questions in the comments. Let’s start the conversation about how we can best support our high school juniors during this important time.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Let’s work together to make the college preparation process smooth and successful for our children.
