It’s a Woman’s World: Prepare your teen now for college in fall

Checking the mail might seem like an ordinary task, but if you’re the parent of a high-school senior, anxiety probably accompanies your walk to the mailbox this time of year.

As high-school seniors across the country await college-admissions decisions, there are several steps they can take now to make the transition in the fall much easier, according to Beverly Low, dean of first-year students at Colgate University.

“First, students can begin preparing for the heavier workload that accompanies college life. Encourage your child to read a book that isn’t required for a current course but that complements topics discussed in class. Early preparation for the rigors of college academics will pay off next year.

“Also, help teens keep track of their appointments, including academic deadlines, extracurricular activities and social engagements. These time-management skills will come in handy when your child balances several courses in the fall.

The last semester of high school is the ideal time to stop scheduling appointments for your teen. Encourage teens to manage their obligations now, and they won’t be overwhelmed with these new responsibilities when they enter college.

“Since most college students adhere to a budget, encourage high-school seniors to begin keeping track of their finances, if they haven’t already, by determining weekly allowances for both spending money and expenses.

“Finally, allow teens to plan a trip without you. Even if it’s just a local trip, this day-long excursion without the family can help your teen prepare for the independence of college life.

The first year of college is an exciting, sometimes overwhelming experience. By encouraging your high-school senior to prepare for the new responsibilities that come with college life, your teen will have a successful first semester. And you’ll sleep a little easier as well.