In this second entry of a yearlong series, I reflect on my youngest daughter’s final year of high school and the complexities of the college admissions process. Simultaneously, I explore my own transition as I brace for an empty nest and contemplate the next chapter of my life as my role as a stay-at-home mom concludes.
Both parents and students often encounter a whirlwind of emotions during senior year, ranging from nostalgia and excitement to anxiety and joy. Yet, amid these feelings lies a practical aspect: determining the next steps for the following year. In our community in New Jersey, a significant majority—approximately 95 percent—of high school seniors pursue higher education, with around 88 percent opting for four-year institutions. With Rutgers University just a short drive away, roughly 20 percent of the class will choose to attend there, often living on campus despite the close proximity.
My daughter is not out of the ordinary; she is applying to ten four-year colleges, including a mix of public and private options. Her selections span “safety” schools, where her GPA and ACT scores exceed the typical acceptance range, “target” schools where her qualifications align with past admitted students, and “reach” schools, which may be more competitive. For each institution, I’ve asked her, “Will you find happiness if this becomes your college?” It’s essential for her to recognize that safety schools can be viable options as well.
Reaches can sometimes yield surprising outcomes. My eldest daughter successfully gained admission to one of her reach schools, despite my initial skepticism about her chances. To my astonishment, she received an acceptance letter after applying on a whim to a school that offered a unique program. We hadn’t even visited before she submitted her application, and six weeks later, she fell in love with the campus during our visit.
For my younger daughter, we have identified three reach schools. While I remind her of the challenges these applications present, I also encourage her to go for it. The application fees for eight of her selected schools range from $30 to $65, adding up to a significant expense during this process. Fortunately, we are in a position to manage these costs. I believe it’s better to know the outcomes than to remain in doubt about her chances.
We aim for her to complete her applications by October, with early action submissions for eight schools. This timeline means all required materials—applications, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and application fees—must be submitted by December 1. Given the volume of transcripts processed at her high school, it is crucial to allow the guidance office sufficient time to meet these deadlines.
The Common Application was released on August 1, and I’m pleased to report that all her chosen institutions utilize this platform, simplifying the process. However, many schools also request supplements, which include additional essays or statements beyond the primary application.
My daughter has filled out the essential information on the Common App, including details about her family’s educational background and her extracurricular interests. However, she is still working on her personal essay. While she has explored several ideas, none have resonated yet. I remain confident she will discover the ideal topic, though it may not happen until the final days of September or even into October.
I reminded her that in nine months, we will finally know which college she will attend, and within a year, she will be stepping onto a campus. But for now, the uncertainty lingers. Completing those applications will bring us closer to the answers we seek.
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Summary:
Navigating the college application process during senior year can evoke a range of emotions, from excitement to anxiety. As students weigh their options between safety, target, and reach schools, parents play a vital role in guiding them through this journey. It’s essential for students to identify schools where they will be content, regardless of the likelihood of acceptance. The Common Application simplifies the process, but many institutions require additional essays. Ultimately, the completion of these applications will pave the way for future opportunities and clarity about the next chapter in their lives.