Is It Possible to Get a 6.0 GPA
Alright. So today, we're diving into something that's probably been on your mind a lot lately. Yeah. College admissions.
Speaker 2:Big one.
Speaker 1:It is a big one. And we've got some expert insights and resources here to try to make this whole journey a little less overwhelming
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:Especially for those parents out there with high schoolers.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:We'll be talking about GPAs and the role of AI and even stress busting strategies.
Speaker 2:It's a wild ride for sure, college admissions.
Speaker 1:It is.
Speaker 2:One minute, they're learning their ABCs, and the next thing you know, you're staring down college applications.
Speaker 1:Didn't know it.
Speaker 2:But we can break it down into manageable pieces.
Speaker 1:Okay. Good.
Speaker 2:Let's start with GPAs.
Speaker 1:Okay. GPAs.
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:It's like the secret code.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:But if you can decipher it, it can make all the difference.
Speaker 1:I like that. A secret code. Yeah. K. So can we decode it for our listeners?
Speaker 1:Because I think a lot of parents out there
Speaker 3:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:Feel like they need a PhD to understand.
Speaker 2:I think a lot of people feel that way.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Think of it this way.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:The standard GPA most people are familiar with is like a level playing field.
Speaker 1:K. It's based on a 4 point o scale. A gets you a 4 point o, b gets you a 3 point o, and so on. Pretty straightforward.
Speaker 2:Okay. Yeah. That makes sense.
Speaker 1:But then we throw in this curve ball. Uh-oh. Weighted GPAs.
Speaker 2:Yeah. That's where I think everybody gets a little Long.
Speaker 1:A little confused. Yeah. Weighted GPAs are designed to recognize that some courses are tougher than others. Okay. So schools might give a little extra oof to grades and honors or AP or IB classes.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:It's like saying that, you know, climbing Mount Everest takes more effort than, you know, a walk in the park.
Speaker 2:Right. So if my kid is acing AP Physics, that a is gonna carry more weight than an a in regular physics.
Speaker 1:Exactly. And in a weighted system, that AP physics a might be like a 5 point o
Speaker 2:Oh, wow.
Speaker 1:On the GPA scale, whereas the regular physics a would stay at a 4 point o.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:That's why you sometimes see GPAs above a 4 point o.
Speaker 2:Right. That makes a lot of sense.
Speaker 1:It reflects the difficulty of the course load, not some superhuman ability to get, like, better than an a.
Speaker 2:Right. Okay. That makes total sense. I was always wondering how people got above a 4 point o.
Speaker 1:Yeah. It's not magic. It's It's the waiting. It's the waiting.
Speaker 2:But then I've heard of, like, some crazy GPAs. Like, is a 6 point o GPA even possible?
Speaker 1:It is possible, but it is incredibly rare.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:We're talking, you know, unicorn level rarity here.
Speaker 2:Okay. So we don't need to really worry about that too much.
Speaker 1:No. I mean, it would need a school with a super heavily weighted system
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 1:Where those advanced courses get a massive boost.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:But most colleges look at both weighted and unweighted GPAs
Speaker 3:Okay.
Speaker 1:To get the full picture of a student's academic journey.
Speaker 2:That makes sense. So you can kinda see, okay, they challenged themselves or they didn't, but this is their base.
Speaker 1:Exactly.
Speaker 2:Okay. Well, that I think that's really helpful to understand because I know a lot of parents are really confused about that.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Okay. So we've tackled GPAs, but then there's this whole other beast. Oh. The college application itself
Speaker 1:Yes.
Speaker 2:Between the deadlines and the essays and the recommendations.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:How are we supposed to keep up with it all?
Speaker 1:It's a lot. No doubt.
Speaker 3:It's a lot.
Speaker 2:But what's really fascinating is how AI is stepping in
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:To help families navigate all of this.
Speaker 1:AI for college applications? Yes. This sounds like we're in a sci fi movie or something.
Speaker 2:Right?
Speaker 1:I'm picturing, like, robots filling out applications for us now.
Speaker 3:Well, hold on.
Speaker 2:Tell them. Not quite that futuristic.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:But it is kind of like having a super organized assistant. Go ahead. These tools are designed to keep you on track, suggest potential colleges that fit your child's profile
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:And just make the whole process smoother.
Speaker 1:So it's like having a college savvy personal assistant, but without the coffee runs.
Speaker 2:You got it.
Speaker 1:I like that.
Speaker 2:It's all about taking some of that pressure off of families and giving them the tools they need
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:To navigate this complex process.
Speaker 1:Okay. But, I mean, does this take away from the human touch of choosing a college?
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 3:You
Speaker 1:know, just just be a personal unique experience?
Speaker 2:Absolutely. And that's where these AI tools can actually enhance that personal touch
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Not replace it.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Think of it this way. AI can crunch massive amounts of data, spotting patterns and insights that we as humans might miss.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:It's kinda like having a super powered guidance counselor in your pocket.
Speaker 1:Okay. So it's not just about filling out forms faster.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:It's about getting smarter insights.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:So what kind of insights are we talking about? Well,
Speaker 2:imagine this. K. AI could analyze your child's interests
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:And suggest a college they've never even considered, a hidden gem that ends up being a perfect fit.
Speaker 1:I like that.
Speaker 2:Or it could suggest extracurricular activities that align with their passions Right. And strengthen their applications.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:It's about making the whole process more strategic
Speaker 3:Okay.
Speaker 2:And less about, you know, throwing spaghetti at the wall and seeing what sticks.
Speaker 1:I like that a strategic approach.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:But I also know a lot of parents out there are a little wary of AI in education. Sure. You know, is it really a good thing to have these algorithms
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:Making decisions about our kids' futures?
Speaker 2:That's a really valid concern, and we need to be mindful of it. Yep. Remember, these tools are designed to be used responsibly and ethically. Right. It's about finding that balance
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Using AI to empower, not overpower.
Speaker 1:Right. So it's like any tool, it's about how we use it.
Speaker 2:Exactly. AI can be an incredible force for good in education.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:But it's crucial to make sure it's being used in a way that benefits everyone.
Speaker 1:Okay. So when we're talking about finding the right fit
Speaker 3:Yes.
Speaker 1:You know, we're not just talking about getting into the most prestigious college out there.
Speaker 2:Absolutely not.
Speaker 1:It's about finding that environment where your kid is really gonna thrive.
Speaker 2:Exactly. It's about finding the right fit.
Speaker 1:Right. And that might not be the Ivy League school that, you know Right. You had in mind.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:So how can parents help their kids find that sweet spot?
Speaker 2:Well, open and honest conversations are key.
Speaker 3:Oh.
Speaker 2:Talk to your child about their interests and their goals. Yeah. What they envision for their college experience.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:And, you know, try to tune out the noise of those, like, best college rankings.
Speaker 1:Oh, yeah. Those are so subjective.
Speaker 2:Exactly what's best for one student might be a disaster for another.
Speaker 1:Absolutely. Yeah. So it's about finding the right fit, not chasing after some idea of the best.
Speaker 2:You got it.
Speaker 1:It's about finding that place where your child will be challenged and supported and inspired.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:And sometimes that happens in the most unexpected places.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:So how can we, as parents, help our kids find that perfect match?
Speaker 2:We'll start by encouraging them to visit campuses.
Speaker 1:Yeah. You
Speaker 2:know, talk to current students.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Really get a feel for the vibe of each school.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Look beyond those rankings and consider things like location and size Okay. The academic programs that they offer Right. And even the extracurricular activities that are available.
Speaker 1:Oh, yeah. You just reminded me about extracurriculars. Yeah. It seems like those are becoming more important than ever
Speaker 2:They are. Absolutely.
Speaker 1:In the whole college admissions game.
Speaker 2:Colleges aren't just looking for academic robots. You know? Right. They want well rounded individuals who are passionate about something. Yeah.
Speaker 2:Beyond the textbooks.
Speaker 1:So it's not about padding the resume.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:It's about finding those activities that really light them up.
Speaker 2:You got a passion and authenticity shine through, and colleges can spot that a mile away.
Speaker 1:Yeah. They can definitely tell if a kid is just doing something to check a box. Absolutely. Alright. So we've talked about GPAs and finding the right college fit.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:But let's be real. This is all super stressful.
Speaker 2:It is.
Speaker 1:Not just for our kids, but for us as parents too.
Speaker 2:For everyone.
Speaker 1:It really is this pressure cooker of expectations and deadlines. How do we navigate all of this without losing our sanity?
Speaker 2:You hit the nail on the head. It's easy to get caught up in all of the frenzy Right. And forget about, you know, the human beings at the
Speaker 3:heart of it all. Right. We need to
Speaker 2:create a more balanced and supportive environment for everyone.
Speaker 1:Okay. I'm with you there. But how do we actually do that? What are some practical things
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 1:That we can do?
Speaker 2:One of the most powerful things is simply encourage open communication
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Within the family. Create a safe space where everyone feels comfortable
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Sharing their feelings, their anxieties, their hopes. It's amazing how much tension can be released Right. When we simply talk to each other, honestly.
Speaker 1:Absolutely. And I think a lot of times, we forget to do that. Yeah. We just kinda keep it all bottled up.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:And then we all explode at the dinner table.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Okay. So communication is key.
Speaker 2:It is.
Speaker 1:Got it. What What else?
Speaker 2:It's also helpful to, you know, break down those monstrous tasks
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Into smaller, more manageable pieces.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:So instead of staring down the entire mountain
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Just focus on conquering 1 base camp at a time.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:And don't forget to celebrate those small wins along the way.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Even submitting an application, you know, deserves a mini celebration.
Speaker 1:Oh, absolutely. Right. Little dance party. Exact. Alright.
Speaker 1:Those are great tips, and I think it's also important to remember that
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 1:We as parents need to manage our own stress levels.
Speaker 2:Yes. We do.
Speaker 1:You know, if we're constantly, like, on edge
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:Our kids are gonna pick up on that.
Speaker 2:Absolutely. So
Speaker 1:how can we set a good example for them?
Speaker 2:Well, it's all about modeling those healthy coping mechanisms.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Show your kids that it's okay to take breaks.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:To step away from the laptop. Yeah. You know, do something that recharges their batteries.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 3:Encourage them to ask for help when they need it. Right.
Speaker 2:Whether it's from you or a teacher or a guidance counselor.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:And most importantly, you know, remind them that the college admissions process
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Doesn't have to be a marathon run at breakneck speed.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:It's about pacing ourselves.
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Taking those deep breaths.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:And remembering that we're all in this together.
Speaker 1:Right. It shouldn't feel like a constant uphill battle. No. It's more about pacing ourselves and taking breaks and remembering that we're all on the same team here.
Speaker 2:Exactly. Okay.
Speaker 1:I love that. So it's about shifting the focus Yeah. From achieving a certain outcome
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:To creating a positive and supportive environment
Speaker 2:You've got
Speaker 1:where everybody can grow and learn.
Speaker 2:Exactly. And you know what? When we do that, the results tend to take care of themselves.
Speaker 1:Right. And it's a much more enjoyable process.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:Okay. So we've talked about GPAs. Yes. We've talked about finding the right college fit.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:We've talked about managing stress.
Speaker 2:Yes. But
Speaker 1:we can't forget about the elephant in the room
Speaker 2:The big one.
Speaker 1:The financial side of things. Yes. College is expensive.
Speaker 2:It is.
Speaker 1:And for a lot of families, figuring out how to pay for it can feel like
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 1:Solving some complex math equation.
Speaker 2:Yeah. It's daunting.
Speaker 1:It's really daunting. So how do we approach this topic in a way that's both responsible
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:And empowering?
Speaker 2:That's a great question. And you're right. It's a topic that every family needs to tackle head on.
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:And the first step is really open and honest conversations about finances
Speaker 1:Agree.
Speaker 2:With your child.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Talk about your family's financial situation Right. What you can realistically contribute Right.
Speaker 3:And, you know, explore the different options for financing their education. Okay.
Speaker 2:But sometimes those conversations can be tough. Yeah. And education.
Speaker 1:Okay. But sometimes those conversations can be tough. Yeah. Especially if there are financial constraints. Sure.
Speaker 1:How do you balance that transparency Right.
Speaker 3:With reassurance?
Speaker 2:It's about
Speaker 1:finding that sweet spot between, you know Okay. Being upfront
Speaker 2:about the costs costs and emphasizing that there are ways to make it work. Okay. Scholarships, grants, financial aid programs, even work study opportunities.
Speaker 3:These can all help lighten the load.
Speaker 1:Those are great points. But even with financial aid Yeah. Sometimes those numbers can still feel overwhelming.
Speaker 2:I know.
Speaker 1:Are there any tools out there or resources that can Mhmm. Help families make sense of it all
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:And create a solid plan?
Speaker 2:There are some fantastic online resources that are designed to, you know, break down college costs
Speaker 3:Okay.
Speaker 2:Explore financial aid options
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:And help families develop a personalized budget that works for their situation.
Speaker 1:So what should parents be looking for?
Speaker 2:Well, look for something that's user friendly and easy to understand Right. Even if you're not a financial whiz.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Ideally, it should provide clear information about college costs, financial aid options, and potential scholarship opportunities
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:Bonus points if it offers personalized recommendations
Speaker 3:Okay.
Speaker 2:Based on your family's financial situation
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:And your child's academic profile.
Speaker 1:Okay. So it's about taking control of the situation Yeah. And making informed decisions
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Rather than just feeling lost.
Speaker 2:Feeling overwhelmed.
Speaker 1:Right in the sea of numbers and forms and applications and deadlines and
Speaker 2:It's a lot.
Speaker 1:It's a lot.
Speaker 2:And remember, you don't have to go through this alone.
Speaker 1:That's right.
Speaker 2:Guidance counselors, financial aid advisers.
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:Even online communities. Yeah. There's a whole support system out there
Speaker 1:That's a good point.
Speaker 2:To help you navigate this.
Speaker 1:Right. I think sometimes we as parents feel like we have to have all the answers
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:And do everything ourselves.
Speaker 3:Right. And, really, there's a lot of
Speaker 1:support out there. There are people who do ourselves.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:And, really, there's a lot of
Speaker 3:support out there. There are people who do this for a living.
Speaker 2:That's a great point. It's amazing to think about how much the whole
Speaker 3:landscape of
Speaker 1:college admissions has changed.
Speaker 2:I know. It's changing so quickly. Even just in the past few years.
Speaker 1:Right. It feels like when I applied to college, it was a completely different world.
Speaker 2:Absolutely. And one of the most significant shifts we're seeing is the rise of AI Okay. And its integration into education.
Speaker 1:AI and education, this sounds like a whole other Yeah. Deep dive that we need to do.
Speaker 2:We could talk for hours about that. Right. But we've already touched upon how AI can help with, you know, the application process.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:But its impact goes far beyond that.
Speaker 1:Okay. So so
Speaker 2:AI is changing the very way that students learn
Speaker 1:Wow.
Speaker 2:Prepare for college, and even envision their future careers.
Speaker 1:So we're not just talking about AI as a fancy tool.
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 1:We're talking about it as, like, a fundamental shift in education itself.
Speaker 2:Exactly. AI has the potential to personalize learning like never before.
Speaker 1:Okay. So how so
Speaker 2:Imagine a world where every student has access to a virtual tutor
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:That adapts to their individual learning style.
Speaker 1:Oh, wow.
Speaker 2:Their pace, their needs.
Speaker 1:So it's like having a personalized learning coach in your pocket. You it's incredible. But I also know a lot of parents out there are a little worried about this.
Speaker 2:Of course.
Speaker 1:You know, are we heading towards a world where robots replace teachers?
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:Will AI stifle creativity or critical thinking?
Speaker 2:Those are all valid concerns. Yeah. And it's so important to have these conversations. Like, any powerful technology, AI can be used for good or for ill.
Speaker 1:That's true.
Speaker 2:It all comes down to how we choose to develop it and implement it.
Speaker 1:Right. So it's not about fearing AI. It's about understanding its potential
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:And shaping its development and making sure that it's used responsibly.
Speaker 2:You got it. And that starts with education.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:We need to prepare our children not just to use AI
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:But to understand how it works Right. To think critically about its implications
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:To be active participants in shaping its future.
Speaker 1:I love that. But how do we do that? Right. I'm not a computer scientist. That's correct.
Speaker 1:I don't even fully understand how AI works myself.
Speaker 2:You don't need to be an AI expert
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:To foster curiosity and critical awareness. You know, start by having conversations with your children about the AI that they already encounter in their daily lives.
Speaker 3:Okay.
Speaker 2:Ask them questions like, how does this work?
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:What are the potential benefits or drawbacks?
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:You know, encourage them to think about the ethical implications of AI sparking those conversations and encouraging
Speaker 1:that Right. Critical thinking mindset. Exactly. It all comes back to what we
Speaker 2:were
Speaker 1:saying earlier about equipping our kids
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:With the skills they need to navigate a world that's becoming increasingly shaped by technology.
Speaker 2:You got it. And this also highlights the importance of choosing colleges
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:That are forward thinking in their approach to education.
Speaker 1:Okay. So we're not just looking at, you know, how beautiful the campus is or, you know, what their football team's ranking is.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:We're looking at, you know, are they really preparing our kids for the future?
Speaker 2:Are they embracing innovation? Are they preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of an AI driven world?
Speaker 1:Okay. I like that.
Speaker 2:It's not just about a prestigious name. It's about finding a college that aligns with your values
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:And your vision for your child's future.
Speaker 1:And their future career.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:Okay. So we're thinking bigger picture here.
Speaker 2:Much bigger picture. Yes.
Speaker 1:What kind of world are we preparing our children for? Alright. And what kind of education will best equip them to thrive in that world?
Speaker 2:Exactly. Those are the questions we should be asking Right. As we go through this whole process.
Speaker 1:I love that perspective.
Speaker 2:Good.
Speaker 1:Okay. So let's bring it back down to earth for a minute Okay. And talk about something that I know stresses everybody out. Oh. Stress.
Speaker 1:Yes. The college admissions process is inherently stressful.
Speaker 2:It is.
Speaker 1:All the expectations, the deadlines, the competition. Right. How do we navigate all of this without turning into a ball of nerves?
Speaker 2:Such a crucial point. And it's so easy to get swept up in the frenzy Right. And forget that we're dealing with human beings here
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Both our children and ourselves.
Speaker 1:Yes.
Speaker 3:We
Speaker 2:need to create a more balanced and supportive environment for everyone involved.
Speaker 1:Okay. All ears. Give me some practical strategies.
Speaker 2:Well, one of the simplest but most powerful things you can do is encourage open communication.
Speaker 1:Okay. We talked about this before.
Speaker 2:We did.
Speaker 1:But it's worth repeating.
Speaker 2:It is it's so important. Yeah. Create a space where everyone feels safe sharing their feelings Yeah. Their concerns, their
Speaker 1:hopes without judgment. Right.
Speaker 3:It's amazing how much
Speaker 2:tension can be released Yeah.
Speaker 3:When we
Speaker 2:just talk to each other, honestly. I think
Speaker 1:sometimes just voicing
Speaker 2:those fears and anxieties
Speaker 1:can make them feel less overwhelming.
Speaker 2:You got it. Bottling things up just makes the pressure build.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:It's also incredibly helpful to break those monumental tasks
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:To smaller, more manageable steps.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:So instead of staring down this entire mountain, you know
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Just focus on conquering 1 base camp at a time
Speaker 1:Get that.
Speaker 2:And don't forget to celebrate those small victories.
Speaker 1:Yes.
Speaker 2:Along the way, even submitting an application, you know, deserves a little happiness. Absolutely. Right.
Speaker 1:Okay. So break it down. Celebrate the small wins.
Speaker 2:Yes. What else? And remember, you know, as parents, we need to manage our own stress levels too.
Speaker 1:Oh, that's so true.
Speaker 2:You know, if we're constantly on edge, our kids are gonna pick up on that.
Speaker 1:Right. They're like little sponges.
Speaker 2:Those And
Speaker 1:absorb all that energy.
Speaker 2:So how can we set a good example for them?
Speaker 1:Right. What can we do?
Speaker 2:Well, it all comes down to modeling those healthy coping mechanisms.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Show your kids that it's okay to take breaks.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:To step away from the laptop. Yes. Do something that recharges their batteries.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Encourage them to ask for help when they need it.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Whether it's from you or a teacher or a guidance counselor.
Speaker 1:Good points.
Speaker 2:And most importantly, remind them that this whole process
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Doesn't have to be a marathon run at breakneck speed.
Speaker 1:Right. We were talking about pacing ourselves
Speaker 2:Well, exactly.
Speaker 1:Making brave
Speaker 2:Looking deeper.
Speaker 1:And that we're all on the same team here.
Speaker 2:We are all in this together.
Speaker 1:Okay. I love that. So it's about shifting that focus Yeah. From achieving a specific outcome
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:To creating a positive and supportive environment
Speaker 2:You got it.
Speaker 1:Where everyone can grow and learn.
Speaker 2:Exactly. And you know what? When we do that, the results tend to take care of themselves.
Speaker 1:It's a much more enjoyable experience, and I think Absolutely. It takes some of the pressure off.
Speaker 2:It does.
Speaker 1:Okay. So before we move on, I wanna talk about
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:You know, developing those crucial life skills
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 1:That are gonna help our kids thrive, not just in college, but in life beyond the classroom. You know, we've been talking about all these different elements of, you know, the college admissions process. Yeah. But let's not forget about, you know, the ultimate goal here.
Speaker 2:Right. What are we trying to do?
Speaker 1:Setting our kids up for success. Absolutely. Not just college, but in life. Right. The big picture.
Speaker 1:Right. So we're talking about going beyond just good grades and test scores Yeah. And thinking about, you know, what are those life skills that they're really gonna need?
Speaker 2:Absolutely. A college degree is just one piece of the puzzle. Right. It's about developing those essential life skills that'll help them navigate the real world.
Speaker 1:So we're talking about the stuff that they don't necessarily teach in textbooks.
Speaker 2:Right. Exactly. So
Speaker 1:what are we talking about here? What kind of life skills?
Speaker 2:Well, think about things like time management
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Being able to juggle multiple responsibilities, meet deadlines, prioritize tasks. That's gold in many field.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Then there's resilience.
Speaker 1:Oh, resilience.
Speaker 2:Yes. Bouncing back from setbacks, learning from mistakes, and not giving up when things get tough.
Speaker 1:Yeah. That's so important.
Speaker 2:So important.
Speaker 1:And it makes me think about my own college experience.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:You know, some of the most valuable lessons I learned weren't even in the classroom.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:They were about navigating those real life challenges
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:And figuring things out on my own and developing that inner strength
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:To keep going when things get tough.
Speaker 2:Exactly. Those are the skills that will serve them well
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:No matter what path they choose in life.
Speaker 1:And it seems like those skills are becoming even more important
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:In today's world.
Speaker 2:Especially in today's rapidly changing world
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Where, you know, adaptability and problem solving are key.
Speaker 1:Okay. So we've talked about GPAs, finding the right college fit, managing stress
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:Developing these essential life skills.
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 1:Yeah. Is there anything else
Speaker 3:Mhmm.
Speaker 1:That parents should be keeping in mind?
Speaker 2:You know, one thing that often gets overlooked is the importance of celebrating the journey itself.
Speaker 1:Oh, that's a good one.
Speaker 2:It's easy to get so caught up in, you know, the destination, getting that acceptance letter.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:But, you know, we need to remember that this is a significant milestone
Speaker 3:It is. In
Speaker 2:our children's lives. Yeah. And it's a process worth savoring.
Speaker 1:It really is. And I think it's about making memories along the way Yeah. Celebrating those small victories
Speaker 3:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:And just recognizing the growth and learning that happens throughout this whole experience.
Speaker 2:Right. It shouldn't feel like this constant uphill battle.
Speaker 1:No. It shouldn't.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:So what can we do to make it more enjoyable?
Speaker 2:Encourage your child to approach this process with curiosity
Speaker 3:k.
Speaker 2:And a sense of adventure. You know? Yeah. It's a time for them to explore their interests, to discover new passions
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:To step outside of their comfort zone.
Speaker 1:I like that. And as parents, we need to be their biggest cheerleaders.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:You know, that source of support and encouragement no matter what twists and turns come up.
Speaker 2:You got it. It it's about shifting the focus Yeah. From anxiety and pressure
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:To excitement and possibility. Yes. It's about embracing the adventure of it all.
Speaker 1:I love that. Good. Okay. So we're embracing the adventure. We're supporting our kids.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:We're not letting the stress get to us. Right.
Speaker 2:What else? And remember, you're not alone on this journey.
Speaker 1:That's a good one.
Speaker 2:There's a whole network of support out there.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Guidance counselors, teachers, online communities, other parents who are going through the same thing. Don't be afraid to reach out.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Connect with others.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Sharing experiences, advice, even just venting those frustrations can make a world of difference.
Speaker 1:That's so true. I I think sometimes we as parents
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 1:When we feel like we have to do it all ourselves
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 1:You know, you try to be superheroes and
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:But really, there's a lot of support out there.
Speaker 2:There is. Reach out and connect.
Speaker 1:That's a great reminder. And, you know, at the end of the day Yeah. The college admissions process is just one chapter Right. In a much bigger story.
Speaker 2:It is a stepping stone, not the final destination.
Speaker 1:I love that. I think that's a perfect note to end on. Yeah. We've covered so much in this deep dive.
Speaker 2:We have.
Speaker 1:And I hope you know our listeners are feeling informed and empowered Yeah. And maybe even a little bit excited about this next chapter
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:In their family's lives.
Speaker 2:Absolutely. It's an exciting time.
Speaker 1:It is.
Speaker 2:A little daunting.
Speaker 1:It's a little daunting.
Speaker 2:But, ultimately, it's a positive experience
Speaker 1:It is.
Speaker 2:And one that will bring you closer together as a family.
Speaker 1:I think that's a great point. And for those of you who are feeling a little overwhelmed by all the information out there
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:Or who are looking for, you know, a more personalized approach to navigating the college admissions maze
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:You might wanna check out a platform called College Journey.
Speaker 2:Oh, okay.
Speaker 1:They actually use AI to provide tailored guidance.
Speaker 2:Oh, wow. That's interesting.
Speaker 1:They can help you keep track of all those deadlines.
Speaker 2:So helpful.
Speaker 1:And they can even help with the financial planning.
Speaker 2:Oh, very cool.
Speaker 1:And their AI guide is actually called Alice.
Speaker 2:Nice.
Speaker 1:So if you wanna check them out, just search for college journey.
Speaker 2:Awesome.
Speaker 1:And that's all for today's deep dive. Thanks for joining us, and we'll see you next time.
Speaker 2:Thanks for having me.
