A college decision is the culmination of many years of work, and we understand the important role that parents, families, and support systems play in this process. Here are five ways you can provide assistance and encouragement throughout the college search journey.
Discuss their role in leading the college search. Your student will most likely be spending four years at their chosen institution, so they should take the initiative to research and explore schools that may be a match. Reviewing admissions websites, signing up for virtual events and workshops, and keeping track of any upcoming college visits to their school or area are excellent starting points.
Ask your student to reflect on their academic interests and desires for the college experience. In addition to majors and minors, they can consider things like approach to academics, social experience, size and location, and access to research and internships. These conversations can help your student prioritize what’s most important to them and build their school list.
Talk about your family’s expectations for covering college costs and estimate your costs with online tools. Having a financial aid conversation is a great way to brainstorm plans for financing your student’s education. Our online tools can provide an estimate for what your family can expect to pay for Hopkins. You and your student can also attend our virtual financial aid sessions and reach out to their designated financial aid adviser. Assigned by last name, these advisers are available for virtual meetings or phone appointments to discuss your financial circumstances.
Plan campus visits. Organizing a college road trip and scheduling campus visits can give your student insights into academics and student life at a university. By touring the campus and interacting with current students, they will find out whether they can envision themselves living and learning in the community. Your family can consider asking the following questions during these visits.
We regularly offer admissions sessions and tours and many schools, including Hopkins, offer travel assistance for certain visit days. To register for an admissions session and tour, review the calendar of upcoming sessions, select the date and time that works best, and complete the event registration.
Discuss how your student plans to stay organized and track important deadlines. They can create a virtual spreadsheet, write down application deadlines and requirements in a dedicated notebook, or set reminders within their phone calendar. Application requirements can vary from one college to another, so it’s important they take note of any additional essays or forms they may need to complete.
The undergraduate admissions team at Hopkins is here to help your family throughout the college search and application process. Your student can connect with their regional admissions counselor if they have any questions or concerns.
