| Well, I think applying to day is easier than it was years ago. Back when dinosaurs roamed the earth and I applied to college there was no internet, cell phones, instant messaging, email, virtual tours, SAT prep courses, etc. and there was no common application, college guides, etc. etc. but there were no less schools and no fewer concerns and considerations then those one could consider now. I think parents today just like to think it is more complex today so they can justify their (over involvement).
the process has just become over blown and out of control in large part by the "helicopter parent" generation. I was trying to be kind in calling it sad. I think the level to which too many people take the college search is pathetic and unrealistic and unnecessary.
Maybe my circumstances are just unusual then as our D made all her SAT arrangements alone, applied to about 12 schools entirely on her own, did all her essays alone, arranged her own visits, met with the school counselor, had some discussion with us. She is now a freshman at an excellent Mid-West University. Our son was a recruited athlete and dealt with several dozen schools recruiting him, plus everything else that goes w/ applying to college and again, beyond some advice here and there did this on his own and ended up at a LAC that is routinely ranked in the top 5 nationally and will graduate this May (in 4 yrs).
To quit your job for this application process? I am sorry, that is complete overkill in my opinion and I remain of the belief that if a student needs the enormity of help some receive then perhaps they are not ready for college. Espcially keeping in mind that in just a few months from application time they will be at a college somewhere, perhaps 3000 miles away from home and on their own and need to be ready to stand on their own two feet.
Typically though none of this is the student's need, just the "stage door mom" psychology and the mistaken belief you can actually clear your child's path through life, coupled with those that never cease to live vicariously through their child and never allow the child to have their own life experience. |