Helping your student make GREAT educational decisions

For seniors the time is now. For juniors, the time is close. For sophomores and freshmen, the time is around the corner. How will you help your child make their decisions about higher education? As parents and guardians, you are the greatest influence in your child’s life. Going to college is one of the most important decisions that your child will make as a young adult. It goes without saying; they WILL need your help.

Making a college choice can be very involved. One of the most important aspects of making that choice includes finances; which is a subject that bewilders many teenagers. Talk to your student about the cost of college and help them understand which schools are affordable.  Money to cover tuition, books, room and board can be covered with a variety of options: money from you their parents and guardians, work-study programs and / or financial aid including scholarships, grants and student loans.   Also, encourage students to do in-depth research and take college trips to help them understand the college going process and to find a college that is a perfect fit for them academically and socially. It’s never too early to start!

Sending a child off to college can be easy with the right support and guidance. If you feel overwhelmed by the whole process, first stay the course with your support, but seek help from people that are knowledgeable about the process. Talk to family and friends that have been to college, or set up a meeting with your student’s EIF higher education advisor or school guidance counselor.

I have provided a few tips here, so now, how will you help your child with the higher education process?  If you have additional tips to share, let me hear back from you on Facebook or Twitter!

Talk soon,

EIF, Senior Higher Education Advisor

Leave a Reply