College applicants aren’t the only players in the process. Parents, we know many of you are lurking in the background if not leading the charge on the frontline. We see you. Here are the 8 different types of college applicant parents we’ve come across. You know which one you are…
1. The OG Tiger Mom
This parent has done her homework. She knows the optimal month for her kid to take the SAT, has memorized all the supplemental essay prompts, and investigated which schools need a french horn player (which her lucky applicant picked up in middle school). She’s captaining the ship. She really wishes she were the one applying – she would crush it.
2. The Puppeteer
This parent doesn’t overtly assert her control, but she’s definitely pulling the strings behind the scenes. A master of tactful coercion, this parent is able to convince her applicant that every strategic step originated with her kid.
3. The Backseat Driver
The Backseat Driver isn’t entirely sure which path is necessarily the right path to take, but he’s definitely vocal with his suggestions. This is probably his first time through the wringer, so he’s taking as many people’s advice as possible. Every fork in the road is an opportunity to influence the destination. He’s doing the best he can with what he’s got.
4. The Surrogate
Sometimes, you just need to bring someone else in to parent your kid. This parent knows her words will fall on deaf ears. But, hire a third party college expert to channel her wishes, and her applicant will fall in line.
5. The Closer
This parent stays benched and inactive until the last minute. She steers clear of her applicant and offers advice only when asked. But, when it comes crunch time, the Closer steps in to make sure the game isn’t lost in the final minutes.
6. The Financier
This parent isn’t particularly involved in the substantive aspects of the application process. She is, however, concerned with financing the endeavor. She guides her applicant toward schools that are economically viable, and does her best to navigate FAFSA and hunt for scholarships.
7. The Hands-off Passenger
He whole heartedly trusts that his kid can handle the application process for herself, so he stays totally hands-free. For better or worse, his applicant has the controls, and he’s just along for the ride.
8. The Co-pilot
Chances are, you genuinely think you’re the Co-pilot who’s perfectly in sync with your kid. Not too aggressive. Not too passive. Just the perfect amount of support for your applicant to nail each takeoff and landing. Hey, you might be… But that’s a question only your Pilot can answer.
The college application is a tough, emotionally draining, drawn-out process for applicants and parents. We feel your pain. Share your experience with us in the comment section below! Stayed tuned for upcoming webinars where we’ll have parents who’ve been in your shoes answer your questions.
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