<p>I don’t worry about “maturity issues” if, by that, one means making foolish choices such as binge drinking. I would worry if my S had health issues, for example, that needed to be attended to.
My S has learned about some aspects of academic life, such as the need to start doing research for a paper early enough to give himself time to write, revise, change topic if necessary, and so forth. This is a lesson that many students learn the hard way in their freshman year. His high school did not provide him enough opportunities to write long papers, so I insisted he participate in activities such as National History Day. He’s also gotten used to the red tape necessary to get into certain courses, get grades onto his transcript, etc…</p>
<p>Parents may be concerned about their child entering college a bit early and therefore seek what looks to be the most supportive environment for a 16-year old. But the 16-year old does not stay the same age and what seemed supportive at 16 may feel constricting at 18.</p>
<p>I started college at 17, and I agree with bookworm that once accepted, age and SAT scores are of little concern. I was in-state, but not at-home. I had worked at summer camps, so had experienced being away from the nest. I had a great time and was absolutely ready to be away from home and at college.</p>
<p>That said, each child is unique and I’m sure some at 16 are ready and some at 20 still aren’t.</p>
<p>My son went at 16 and was the youngest kid in the dorm his freshman year at MIT. </p>
<p>And this year too. (It was a big deal when he turned 18 this year!)</p>
<p>Doesn’t seem to have slowed him down any. His b’day is late Sept and he skipped his senior year of HS. It was his idea–I tried to talk him out of it.</p>
<p>But MIT does have a minor set of procedures in place for dealing with “young freshmen.” His RA is aware of his age, for example, as are his housemasters. </p>
<p>Yes, his room is a pit whenever I visit. His clothes are clean, however. He has a group of wonderful friends who range in age from 18 to about 25. His grades are excellent. </p>
<p>I was sure he wasn’t ready for college–but also worried what would happen if I held him back. All in all, I’m thrilled he went.</p>
<p>You asked what prompted us (or her) to have my daughter apply at her current age. I am afraid it happened by default rather than by designed. We relocated from Europe several years ago where she had skipped fourth grade. Due to the different cut-off date there and here, she ended up in a grade with other kids that were one to two years older. She now is a senior like all the other college applicants.</p>
<p>Dear everybody,</p>
<p>Thank you very much for sharing your opinions, experiences and insights. It was most helpful and I truly appreciate it.</p>