QC Family Focus: October 2014

TALKING WITH YOUR
STUDENT ABOUT COLLEGE
Marilyn Peters
Director of Guidance, Davenport West High School
Here are some questions to begin conversations with
your student to determine interests, skills, and values and
explore reasons to go to college.
Why should I have a college education?
1. Better jobs with increased earning power; a $22,000
increase of median earnings over high school education
[College Board, Education Pays report, January 2013]
2. Increased likelihood of always being employed and having
financial security [Huffington Post, June 2014]
3. Make connections with others in your career field giving
you an edge when pursuing new options
4. More confidence, personal growth and success as an adult
Where can I find college information? Go directly
to the source. Take your student to visit campuses. Select
2-3 diverse schools: small school, large school, community
college, private college, state university. Attend the Iowa
Quad City College Fair at St. Ambrose (October 13,
2014), and talk face-to-face with 100 different college
representatives. During the school year, college reps visit
area high schools. Students need to take time to talk with
them regarding majors and the college application process.
College selection should be a good fit considering career
interests and costs.
How can I be prepared to go to college? There are many
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resources that are helpful to high school students. One of
the best is ICAN, the Iowa College Access Network. This
website www.ICANsucceed.org has handy tools and tips
for: selecting the best high school courses, beginning
volunteer and community service, getting involved in
clubs and activities, going on campus visits, starting
a resume, etc. In the college admissions process, the
student transcript (academic record) and resume are very
important. Taking appropriate classes is vital, and having
discussions with your student’s high school counselor can
get everyone on the right track.
When should I start? The answer is now. Begin
to discuss favorite subjects, hobbies, experiences, talents,
likes and dislikes. Sometimes you recognize things in
your student that they do not. Engage in conversations
with friends, co-workers, and neighbors to create a
network. This can open up volunteer opportunities, parttime
jobs, and job shadows to help narrow the focus as it
relates to careers. Your student will experience leadership
and learn responsibility and dependability as they engage
in meaningful pursuits. Colleges are looking for balance
in prospective applicants --- not just academics, but
activities both in and outside of school.
Encourage your student and start the college
conversation.
22 October 2014 - QC Family Focus