<p>I second all the wise folks who've been on already. I didn't start reading until S (my second) had been accepted at and chosen his present school. Boy was I proud of my ability to reinvent the wheel! </p>
<p>There was so much I didn't know (although I did a lot of research) that I can see that our process worked out just by dumb luck!</p>
<p>I'm with paying3 -- I continually say to myself, "I should have known that," but I'm pretty sure things would have turned out the same. As I said, dumb luck.
The ins and outs of college financing would interest most parents. They, whoever they are, keep this pretty quiet, and it's not so easy to ferret out all the information. Financial strategies would be helpful before the lists and visits are made.</p>
<p>Areas of interest I think are:</p>
<p>Uni vs. LAC
Fit vs prestige
Specialized education vs liberal arts
Publics and Privates
Merit and need based aid</p>
<p>This is probably just me, but I never get tired of seeing slides/videos of college campuses.</p>
<p>CC allowed me to continue with my college obsession after kids had no more interest. Once each had chosen his/her school the process was over for them, but the gears continue to turn in my head. At least here there are other kids who don't roll their eyes at me.</p>
<p>I ditto what others have said about the chance threads.</p>
<p>This is a bit off topic, but several of you mention being done with "the process" but love talking/thinking about it. I'm just getting started with my three (oldest is a senior in HS.) I've learned a lot this year (thanks to CC:).) and my D's apps are done.</p>
<p>I have a friend with a nephew who is desperate for help with applications. His own mom never went to college, and he lives in a state that doesn't have great GC ratios. He's in town for a week, and I'm going to help him fill out his Common App, University of Cals and misc other apps this week, and get started on the FAFSA. </p>
<p>My point: don't underestimate your knowledge and usefulness. Think about volunteering to help some kids who could use your expertise. The high school your kids graduated from might have students who need help. Or there might be another school in your area with higher numbers of kids who could use someone sitting next them at the computer when they put in their data, and to read their essay. </p>
<p>Maybe a lot of you are already doing this and I'm preaching to the choir. Sorry to hijack the thread, but it's late at night, and I'm feeling preachy...</p>
<p>I joined after D1's apps were all out and we were just waiting for the verdict. Still have D2 in 8th grade. The two are as different as night and day when it comes to studying habits, so think I'm in for a bumpy ride with this one, unless lightening strikes and she suddenly expresses interest in learning...well, she's not THAT bad. Just frustrating, because she could do so much better if she put in just a wee bit more effort. Sorry, I'm ranting.</p>
<p>I was so happy to find this site and have received so much helpful information. I don't post often, but try to read almost everyday! I have really learned a lot.</p>
<p>I was happy to find this site as well. My D is a soph and my son is only 11, but I don't think it's too early to start. I have already learned so many things that I think will be helpful, and I have received excellent advice on non-college related things as well. Enjoy!</p>
<p>LImomof2's screenname is as good as Momof2inca, which led many CCers to think she had Peruvian kids. </p>
<p>Welcome to CC, YDSay, from someone who has absolutely no reason to hang on to CC except that it's fun. I joined when S1 was already in college and S2 was about to apply. S2 is in his 3rd year in college, and here I still am!</p>
<p>Welcome, YDSay. I’m still in awe of the parents on these boards. I’ve been lurking and learning for a couple years, and I’m still trying to figure out what I know and don’t know. There are some incredibly bright posters, and I’m better for “knowing” them. I’m also mighty entertained. </p>
<p>I try to manage the time sink in between projects and life. Some times are more successful than others. I really need to get back to my current project…and so it goes.</p>
<p>What drew me to CC was the incredible specialized information I found (specifically about music performance schools in their various incarnations and affiliations) -- people like BassDad and violadad have offered invaluable help. Don't overlook the sites for specific majors. The personalities and insights of some of the regulars, curmudgeon, JHS, paying3tuitions, in particular, have also maintained my interest past the admissions results. My kids, on the other hand, think I'm nuts for reading CC.</p>
<p>Thanks for all the affirmations, folks! I am bringing this thread to the attention of the other volunteer moderators. It makes us feel that our work is worthwhile. :)</p>
<p>YDS, welcome. I didn't find CC until my youngest was a freshman and going through a tough time. While it would have been wonderful to have the CC support through application times, it has been an enormous help to me sorting through adjustment issues, transfer questions and just helping me with empty nest.</p>
<p>I too am from the south--so along with that sweet tea, grab some barbecue or grits (depending on time of day) and join the club!!</p>
<p>Oh and while we're here at the academy awards, let's cheer the role of the moderators to keep the Parents board pleasant and informative to read.</p>
<p>Every so often, something gets uncomfortable or testy. None of us agrees with every moderator's every decision, that's for sure. But in genreal, they ensure that the TOS (terms of service) are maintained, offensive remarks deleted, privacy protected, and many more important things I don't even know about.</p>