<p>Thank you, M, I just had a lightbulb moment! Your D sounds like a very wise young woman. My D has been getting very testy with me lately whenever I suggest/inquire about an opportunity she has. It’s been puzzling me, as I always tell her it’s up to her but realized that I also add my 2 cents, which is probably a mistake and inappropriate for a young lady about to enter college. I’ll have to work on keeping my opinions to myself unless asked. </p>
<p>I think it’s so easy for us, with our years of life experience, to fall into the trap of pushing our kids to test their true potential. I think we sometimes forget that having free will, and the opportunity to make mistakes, is vital to their long term happiness and success. It’s hard to see them pass up an opportunity, but they learn so much more from their own mistakes than they ever will from endless nagging.</p>
<p>I decided to bump this thread, because I think that some people had some really good advice to give–it’s relevant to many people, because it’s an issue that many families face. </p>
<p>The class of 2010 is in the thick of application season…tensions are high, and reading some of these posts may help applicants and parents alike as they navigate the treacherous waters that are college admissions.</p>
<p>Thoughts? Suggestions? Keep it rollin’! Good luck, seniors–and parents as well. </p>