<p>Other threads have documented the travails, frustrations, etc. of the application process, of which I had had my fair share at the time.</p>
<p>D is in the process of applying for both internships and a semester-abroad program right now and the contrast between the processes is pretty clear. Cover letters and resume manufactured with revisions but not stress, the "why" essay for the semester-abroad program ditto, materials being completed waaaay in advance of deadlines. Everything is matter of fact, businesslike, and well done.</p>
<p>I don't know whether it's a result of comfort level from having gone through a process before, an additional two years maturity, both, or some other factor. But it's nice to observe.</p>
<p>You know what I think it is - apart from a little maturation: I think that it's because she's away and you're not there to nag her into doing it.</p>
<p>And we all know from experience that nagging BREEDS procrastination.</p>
<p>My guess: two year's maturity. I was waaay ahead of law school deadlines - something about being a few years older just encourages you to get it done - it's like a college assignment - you realize that you get more out of the experience from doing it well.</p>
<p>My son applied for an internship for which the essay prompt was "Revisit one of your college applications essays. Do you recognize the author of only a few years ago? What advice would you give him/her?" He had a lot of fun with that one, but for me it was a bit too much anxiety dejavu.</p>
<p>TD: Similar story here. Soph DD has also been very methodical preparing and submitting her applications to several upcoming programs/internships. I have had no input at all, and in two cases I wasn't aware of her plans until she'd been selected for the positions. She's waiting on a research position and the abroad opportunity. Interesting change of focus - SHE's waiting, and I'm just enjoying watching HER handle all of it. :)</p>