1. Be the "Stage Manager," Not the Star
Cowdrey’s core advice: Facilitate, don’t dominate.

• Handle logistics: Organize campus visits, track deadlines, and guide discussions—but let your child lead.

• Stay positive: Your behind-the-scenes support fosters independence while keeping stress low.

• "You’re the stage manager, the helmsman on a sailboat. Let your child take the spotlight."

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2. Treat Admissions as a Growth Opportunity

The process isn’t just about college—it’s about building life skills:

• Decision-making, resilience, and self-awareness.

• Learning from rejections and setbacks.

• "This process is really good for adolescent growth and development."

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3. Start Open Conversations Early
Avoid misunderstandings by discussing key preferences upfront:

• Campus size, location, and financial limits.

• Be transparent about budget: "If scholarships don’t cover costs, it’s not an option."

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4. Prioritize Depth in Extracurriculars
Admissions officers value passion over a laundry list of activities:

• Encourage 1–2 deep interests rather than superficial involvement.

• Helps students explore genuine passions and reduce application pressure.

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5. Manage Stress—Keep Perspective
Students’ #1 fear? Disappointing their parents.

• Limit college talk: "Not every conversation should be about applications."

• Balance discussions with lighter topics to show your child they’re valued beyond admissions.

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6. Make Campus Visits Meaningful
Go beyond the tour:

• Talk to non-tour-guide students.

• Eat in the dining hall for an authentic feel.

• Trust your child’s gut: "If a school feels right, that matters."

 

7. Celebrate Every Outcome

• Applaud acceptances—each one is an achievement.

• Normalize rejections: "Don’t let your child feel they’ve failed you."