Your Child’s Voice, Their Story: A Parent’s Role in College Essay Writing
Why the Essay Matters More Than Ever With college admissions growing increasingly competitive, the personal essay has become a crucial space for students to speak directly to the admissions committee. It’s not just about what they’ve done—it’s about who they are. This is where a genuine, well-told story can tip the scales. As a parent, your job isn’t to be the editor-in-chief or ghostwriter. It’s to provide calm support, structure, and encouragement as your child takes ownership of their narrative and refines it into something powerful and personal. Helping Your Teen Find Their Story One of the most daunting questions students face is, “What should I write about?” You can help by steering them toward reflection. Encourage them to think about experiences that have shaped their character—whether it’s a small act of kindness, a failure that sparked growth, or a challenge that revealed inner strength. Listen without judgment and help them identify recurring themes or unique qualities. Oft...