<p>You sound like you are on the right track. Keep letting parents here add to your knowledge base. I was the “smart one” and middle kid. My parents were so fair and equal they never gave me praise commensurate with my achievements- it was compared to my abilities and meeting expectations. Your situation is complex- a twin who they need to try to help and you, who they don’t want to have overshadowing the needy twin so he gets lost. Life is never fair and equal. Your parents are trying to help the one they feel is in the most need. No intentional neglect or less love. They, like my parents eons ago, may be trying to avoid playing favorites and making your twin feel worse/less of a person. The result is that you get those feelings. They also are likely less comfortable with college given their lack of experience with it. Talk to them about how you feel.</p>
<p>Hang in there. Use your guidance counselor’s skills in navigating college admissions. That’s part of their job- they should be able to answer many questions for you (and your parents). Be sure to make an appointment with this person first thing when school starts and get help often. Ask favorite teachers for advice- they know you and have been to college themselves. Use as many adults as mentors as you can.</p>
<p>You will do fine. Continue to reach out as well as research schools online. You sound like you are further ahead than most entering seniors. Think positively- you get to go to college and expand your horizons, plus you are asking for help.</p>