In this episode of unpopular PARENT, we dive into the whirlwind of senior year as college applications open up and the reality of leaving home begins to set in. Scout reflects on how her emotions have shifted since summer—what she was worried about then versus what’s on her mind today.Â
We reflect on how campus visits transformed Scout’s college preferences, including how some schools she once considered a great fit landed on her "firm no" list. We also cover everything from the SAT and ACT to the broader experience of standardized testing and the college admissions process. Plus, Scout shares valuable advice on how to approach and complete those applications with confidence. Whether you're a senior deep in the application process or a parent helping your teen navigate this journey, this episode offers practical insights and honest talk about managing this pivotal time.
00:00 - introduction
00:28 - overall feeling one month into senior year
02:05 - almost, but not yetÂ
College Visits and Narrowing the List
03:16 - when top college choices turn to hard passes - now what?
06:07 - press pause and process
06:27 - sometimes, the right decision is the easiest and most obvious
PSA for Dealing with the Emotions
09:06 - riding the emotional rollercoaster of ‘hurry up…now wait’Â
Thoughts on Testing
13:07 - taking the SAT and ACT
15:46 - one teacher/parent’s (un)popular opinion about testing
20:23 - more character building, less creating great test takersÂ
Is College for Everyone?
21:44 - a case for college
23:11 - a case against college
24:01 - mom’s on board if…Â
24:39 - and there’s more than one way to get to the same place
Parental Role in the Application Process and Final Decision
27:37 - you pay, you get a say (sort of)
28:21 - let your kid complete their college app and write their essays on their own!!!!
30:39 - pro tip to avoid application battles
33:05 - next week’s topic
Ready to claim your seat at the (un)popular table? Subscribe for unlimited access to candid, practical strategies that cut through the parenting noise and help you focus on what truly matters.
Share this post