Decisions Are Looming—Don’t Let Deadlines Derail Your Teen’s Future

The holiday season is upon us, and while many are focused on family, festivities, and football, I know that for parents of high school seniors, there’s an added layer of stress: college admissions decisions. As early decision (ED), early action (EA), and rolling admission results roll in, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Whether your teen is celebrating acceptance or facing disappointment, there are critical next steps that cannot wait.

The next few weeks are pivotal in shaping your teen’s college journey—and I want to ensure you’re prepared. Let’s break it down, step by step, so you and your child can move forward confidently.

1. Reassess the College List (Yes, Again)

Let’s say your teen has applied ED to their dream school. Fantastic! But what if the outcome isn’t what you hoped for? Whether it’s a deferral or rejection, it’s essential to have a plan B, C, and even D in place.

Here’s what to do:

• Double-check the list. Are there schools that align with your teen’s interests, abilities, and aspirations? Are there a mix of safety, match, and reach schools?
• Look at EA and rolling admission schools. If your child hasn’t applied to these yet, now’s the time. These options can provide additional peace of mind and broaden opportunities.
• Don’t wait for heartbreak. Start preparing those additional applications now, before ED decisions are released, to avoid the last-minute scramble.

Remember, a well-rounded college list isn’t just about getting in—it’s about finding the right fit.

2. Stay on Top of School Counselor Requirements

Did you know that many school counselors stop processing requests for transcripts and recommendation letters after mid-December? That means your teen’s January deadlines could be at risk if you don’t act now.

Here’s what you need to do today:

• Confirm submission deadlines with your teen’s school counselor.
• Ensure all supporting documents (transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc.) are submitted before your school’s winter break.
• Communicate clearly. Don’t assume the school will know where to send materials—double-check that everything is on track.

The last thing you want is an incomplete application because of missed internal deadlines.

3. Start the January Applications Now

Even if your teen is hopeful about their ED decision, they must prepare for the possibility of applying elsewhere. Applications due in early January (like those for Georgetown and many other top schools) require attention now—not after December 20th.

Here’s why starting now matters:

• Avoid emotional burnout. If your teen doesn’t get into their ED school, they’ll likely feel disappointed. Scrambling to complete applications in that mindset is stressful for everyone involved.
• Beat the holiday rush. Let’s face it: once the holidays hit, distractions are inevitable. Use these next few weeks wisely to get essays polished and applications submitted.

A few years ago, I worked with a student-athlete who had their heart set on a Division III school. The coach gave them a verbal commitment, and they felt confident about their ED application. But when decisions came out, the student was deferred. The result? She had only one week to complete several other applications she’d neglected.

That kind of stress is avoidable. You can help your teen prepare for any outcome by ensuring all January deadlines are met ahead of time.

4. Manage Emotions and Expectations

The college admissions process isn’t just about logistics—it’s an emotional rollercoaster. Social media adds another layer of pressure as teens compare themselves to their peers. It’s your job as a parent to help them stay grounded.

• Focus on the bigger picture. Remind your teen that one school doesn’t define their future.
• Celebrate every win. Whether it’s an acceptance, a great essay, or simply hitting submit on time, acknowledge their hard work.
• Encourage resilience. If the news isn’t what they hoped for, remind them that rejection is about applications, not personal worth.

So, let’s work together to make this college admissions season easier. The college admissions process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Strategic Admissions Advice specializes in helping families like yours make informed decisions, meet deadlines, and reduce stress.

Our College Application Review Session is designed to ensure your teen’s applications are complete, competitive, and submitted on time. Whether you’re reassessing the college list, polishing essays, or double-checking deadlines, we’re here to help.

Schedule a free Discovery Call today, and let’s discuss how we can support your family through this process. 

The next few weeks are critical. By reassessing the college list, meeting school counselor requirements, and starting January applications now, you’ll set your teen up for success. Together, we can turn this stressful season into one of confidence and clarity.

I’m Shereem Herndon-Brown, and I want the best for your teen—and for you. Let’s make this college admissions season one of celebration, not chaos.