The frantic journey of college planning
In the not-so-distant past, the college planning process was a rite of passage marked by excitement and anticipation. However, in recent years, it has morphed into a frantic journey fraught with stress and anxiety for both parents and students alike. The question is: when did it become so frantic? The answer lies in a multitude of factors, from increasing competition and societal pressure to the pervasive influence of social media and the rise of helicopter parenting.
But here’s the truth: your child WILL get into an incredible school.
Contrary to what you may be hearing from other parents, or in online forums, the statistics are positive. According to the National Association for College Admissions Counseling (NACAC), “In fall 2022, four-year, not-for-profit colleges accepted 73% of applications from first-year students, on average. The average acceptance rate was higher or public colleges (78%) compared to private colleges (70%).” And because we love data, we can learn from this same piece NACAC published that the average acceptance rate was 73.1% in 2021, 70% in 2020, and 68% in 2019. These simple statistics serve as a powerful reminder that there are abundant opportunities to find acceptance and thrive in a college environment.
Having this data in mind should help to make the college planning journey less daunting. If you start from an informed place, it’s easier to shift the focus from frantic competition to genuine exploration and self-discovery. And even if parents begin with this knowledge in mind, there will be many, many moments of anxiety that crop up. In those moments, come back to what you know to be true: the majority of colleges accept the majority of applicants. Put it on a sticky note and put that sticky note where you and your college applicant can see it. Let it be your calm in the storm.
At its core, the college planning journey should be a transformative experience, one that empowers students to discover their passions, embrace their strengths, and chart a course toward a future filled with promise and possibility. As parents, embrace the journey with optimism and faith, knowing that your children will indeed find their rightful place in the collegiate landscape. After all, the journey is not just about getting into college; it's about preparing our children for a lifetime of learning, growth, and fulfillment.
