<p>I think I’d put the option of S2 having a Gap year on the table. A year makes a huge difference in a young man’s life. He doesn’t have to fling burgers for 12 months. You could spend a little and let him travel – or invite him to camp/backpack on an extended trail or try an outdoor course like NOLS or Outward Bound. </p>
<p>I’d also keep my mouth shut right this minute. You probably haven’t heard, for sure, that he’s been accepted to all three schools. Wait until you know what the acceptances and any financial aid/scholarships are. </p>
<p>I’d swap the “dinner at a restaurant” discussion for a walk together once it gets down to decision time. If you are walking together, you are not in a dominant behavioral position. You are both looking and moving forward.</p>