If you’re the parent of a high school senior, late November probably feels a lot like a roller coaster — relief that applications are in, stress about decisions and pride that your student has made it this far. You’re excited. You’re exhausted. And if we’re honest, you might be a little unsure about what your role should look like right now.
The truth? You’ve already done most of the heavy lifting. But there are a few simple, powerful ways to keep supporting your student through the next few months — ways that build trust, keep communication open and make this next step feel a little lighter for both of you.
Listen first — even when you’re dying to advise
It’s natural to want to help. You’ve been guiding your student their whole life. But right now, listening may be the most powerful thing you can do.
Ask open-ended questions instead of giving instant opinions. Try:
- “What’s exciting you about this school?”
- “What are you worried about?”
- “What feels like the right fit to you?”
When you create space for reflection, your student’s confidence grows — and so does your connection.
“The best thing my parents did was listen,” says Transy junior Myah Becker. “They let me figure out what I wanted — and I ended up exactly where I was supposed to be.”
Focus on fit, not pressure
Every college looks great on paper. What matters most is how your student feels in that space — whether it’s a place that will challenge, support and inspire them.
Encourage them to think beyond prestige and cost and instead picture their daily life: the classes, the campus, the community. Can they imagine themselves walking across that back circle? Sitting in that classroom? Finding friends who make them laugh?
Fit isn’t a formula — it’s a feeling.
Visit together (even if it’s cold)
December visits can be surprisingly wonderful. The campus is calmer, finals are approaching and what you’ll see is real — students studying, collaborating and grabbing coffee between classes.
Join a tour, meet an admissions counselor or just wander through downtown Lexington after your visit. The energy is cozy and you’ll see firsthand what your student’s life could look like here.
If travel isn’t in the cards, a virtual visit via the website and a selection of videos can still give you a sense of the rhythm and spirit of campus. The key is to experience it together so you can talk about it later with shared perspective.
4. Talk about finances — honestly and early
Money conversations can feel uncomfortable, but they’re also empowering. Be transparent about your family’s budget and expectations, and remind your student that financial fit is part of college fit.
Encourage them to take ownership of the process — explore scholarship options, learn about work-study programs, ask financial aid questions directly. These are skills that build independence and confidence long before move-in day.
5. Stay calm when the emails start rolling in
When decisions and scholarships begin arriving, it’s easy for emotions to take over — excitement, disappointment, anxiety. Remember that your student takes their cues from you.
Celebrate the wins, acknowledge the setbacks and keep everything in perspective. This process isn’t about validation — it’s about finding the environment where your student can thrive.
“When parents stay calm, students stay grounded,” says Transy assistant director of admissions, Anna Lowe . “The best thing you can say is, ‘I’m proud of you, no matter what.’”
6. Keep the big picture in mind
College is more than a choice — it’s a transition into adulthood. Over the next few months, your student will be learning how to make big decisions, advocate for themselves and imagine a future beyond high school.
That’s what this whole process is about. You’re not just helping them choose a college. You’re helping them grow into the person who can succeed there.
So take a deep breath. Trust the foundation you’ve built. And know that, at Transylvania University, we see parents as partners — because you’ve been your student’s first and most important teacher all along.
Ready to see how Transy partners with families?
Schedule a visit or connect with your admissions counselor to learn more about our parent-friendly support and scholarship opportunities.