12 New Year’s Resolutions for Parents of High School Students

Happy New Year to all parents of high school students! As we step into a new year and adjust to writing “2025,” it’s a great time to set some resolutions. Here are a few suggestions from International College Counselors to help you navigate the college process and cherish the time left with your high schooler, whether they’re in ninth grade or twelfth—or somewhere in between.

1. Keep the college process in perspective. Often, much of the stress around the college process comes from the parents. Remember that college is just one chapter in your student’s life. Where they go to college matters less than how they take advantage of opportunities during and after college. Reassure them that success can come from any school and help them see the process realistically.

2. Strengthen communication. The teenage years are pivotal for building trust between parents and children. Strengthen your connection by actively listening, validating their feelings, and fostering honest communication. Ask open-ended questions about their aspirations, concerns, and interests. Establishing this trust now will create a foundation for an enduring relationship, even as they gain independence in college.

3. Seek help when needed. Whether it’s tutoring for a tough subject, preparing for standardized tests, or working with an executive function coach, plenty of resources are available. Consider working with a college admissions advisor. An advisor from International College Counselors can be an invaluable resource for your student in the new year, guiding them through every step of the college application process. From creating a personalized college list to refining essays and helping students meet critical deadlines, ICC advisors provide expert advice tailored to your student’s strengths and goals. They can help identify scholarships, internships, and extracurricular opportunities to enhance applications and boost competitiveness.

4. Reduce stress. The college admissions journey can be overwhelming for both students and parents. Stay calm and approach the process with a positive mindset—your student will likely follow suit. ICC advisors are skilled at streamlining complex steps, ensuring that deadlines are met and details are not overlooked. Their professional guidance can instill confidence, making the path to college success much more manageable for your family.

5. Set realistic goals. Every student has unique strengths, and the key to finding the right college fit is identifying institutions that align with your child’s abilities and aspirations. If grades or test scores fall short of selective school requirements, shift your focus to colleges where they can be admitted and thrive. ICC can help pinpoint options that perfectly match your child’s academic and personal goals.

6. Offer encouragement. In the last two years of high school, your child is juggling academics, extracurriculars, and applications—it’s a lot! Provide steady encouragement and celebrate their hard work.

7. Help manage time. Time management is crucial during the college application process. Assist your child in creating a clear plan to stay on top of deadlines for scholarships, internships, and applications. Break large tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and encourage them to prioritize their commitments. Provide gentle reminders without micromanaging, and offer tools like planners or digital calendars to help them organize their responsibilities. Knowing you’re in their corner can boost their confidence and motivation.

8. Teach life skills. Equip your child with essential life skills to ensure a smooth transition to college. Teach them how to manage a budget, do laundry, cook simple meals, handle money responsibly, and meet deadlines. These foundational skills will make their first year away from home much less daunting.

9. Encourage new experiences. High school is the perfect time for self-discovery. Encourage your student to try new activities—whether through internships, part-time jobs, clubs, or sports. These experiences not only help them explore their interests but can also provide a clearer picture of their future aspirations. They might discover a hidden talent or passion along the way.

10. Watch for senioritis. Once the college acceptances roll in, it’s tempting for students to relax—but remind them that senior year still matters. Colleges reserve the right to rescind offers of admission if grades drop or disciplinary issues arise. Encourage them to finish strong, celebrating their achievements while staying focused.

11. Celebrate this milestone. No matter which college your child chooses, this is an exciting chapter filled with opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive. Take pride in their achievements and independence. Celebrate this milestone with them and look forward to the adventures that await.

12. Take care of yourself. Your well-being is just as important as your student’s success. Model healthy habits—like regular exercise, eating nutritious foods, and getting enough sleep—not just for yourself but as a positive example for your child. These small habits reduce stress and improve focus, showing them that balance is key to success.

The high school years and college admissions process can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. International College Counselors is here to support you every step of the way.

Here’s to a successful and joyful year ahead!

INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE COUNSELORS

No matter where your family is in the college admissions process, International College Counselors can help you with every aspect, including honing the college list, fine-tuning college applications, writing admission essays, and managing college transfers. The expert team at International College Counselors includes former college admission officers, high school directors and counselors, and writing professionals with a combined 250+ years of experience, helping students and families successfully navigate the college application journey. For personalized guidance, contact International College Counselors at 954-414-9986 or email Marlene at [email protected].