<p>I have to join the others who said I preferred no friends. It was a special time with my daughter, and I would have not wanted to share it. DD and I have had our disagreements and power struggles over the years as I know you have as well. This was our thing, and it took us back to being close again. DH and younger sis stayed home, and we had a ball visiting colleges in different spots. DH’s job was to remind us when we got stressed that it would all work out in the end… I think it would have been just fine with a friend, but I would have felt more like a chauffeur. It sounds sappy, but it was absolutely miraculous to see her decision skills change in the year of tours here and there - I wouldn’t have missed it for the world, and neither would she. the key for me was to reiterate constantly that I am the “secretary - the recorder - the researcher” and she is the boss. That role division worked extremely well - it reminded me of my place, kept her talking and making thought lists that I scribbled down, and assisted her in taking responsibility. Can’t be bossy if you are the secretary, and can’t be passive if you are the boss!!</p>