156. Navigating the College Preparation Journey

Summary In this episode of the Parenting Reset Show, Tess Connolly, LCSW speaks with Shellee Howard, a certified independent college strategist and counselor. They discuss the complexities of the college admissions process, the importance of understanding student identity and motivation, and the strategies for navigating college selection while aiming for a debt-free education. Shellee shares her personal journey and experiences with her four children, highlighting the diverse paths they took to achieve their educational goals. The conversation emphasizes the need for parents to engage in deeper discussions with their children about their aspirations and the realities of college life. In this conversation, Shellee Howard discusses the intricacies of preparing students for college, emphasizing the importance of individualized strategies tailored to each student's unique strengths and needs. She highlights the significance of starting early, building ownership and accountability in students, and the role of mentorship in navigating the college admissions process. Additionally, Shellee shares insights on simplifying the admissions process and securing scholarships, encouraging parents to take an active role in their child's college readiness journey. Takeaways Shellee Howard helps students and parents navigate the college admissions process. Understanding student identity is crucial for college readiness. The financial aspect of college is often a major concern for families. Community service should be viewed as a positive experience, not a chore. Students often feel pressure from various sources, leading to inaction. Parents and students often have different priorities regarding college fit. Early exposure to college environments can spark interest in higher education. Career paths are evolving, and students need to be aware of future job markets. Engaging students in meaningful conversations can help clarify their goals. The college selection process should focus on academic, social, and financial fits. Parents should avoid treating their child as an average statistic. Starting college preparation early can prevent future academic setbacks. Community service involvement should begin as early as possible. A customized college readiness plan is essential for each student. The 'vault' contains valuable data to guide families in the admissions process. Recording sessions with students provides insights for parents. Understanding a child's love language can improve communication. Mentorship plays a crucial role in the college preparation process. Simplifying the college admissions process reduces overwhelm for families. Scholarship opportunities can be pursued as early as seventh grade. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to College Readiness 06:31 The Journey of College Ready 12:30 Understanding Student Identity and Motivation 18:24 Navigating the College Selection Process 24:03 Assessing Career Paths and Future Opportunities 28:21 Navigating the College Preparation Journey 30:41 Customizing the College Readiness Plan 32:28 The Importance of Individualized Strategies 35:06 Building Ownership and Accountability in Students 39:32 Understanding Love Languages for Better Communication 40:38 The Role of Mentorship in College Preparation 42:03 Simplifying the College Admissions Process 45:09 Strategies for Securing Scholarships Find out more about Shellee Howard here 👉 Shellee Howard — College Ready | College Admissions Consulting

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