by Kevin O'Connell

Created on: November 16, 2008

There is no denying that statistically college graduates possess greater financial earning power than non-graduates. That being said, college is not for everyone. However, for those that so aspire, it is the process more than the particular institution that ultimately is of value. A parent may best guide their teen by considering the following tips:

College is school. If a teen is not comfortable in school and has not enjoyed the experience nor has had success, college following high school might not be the appropriate option. Success in a college setting requires an positive attitude and a practiced set of skills. A teen who has consistently produced low level high school work is going to be frustrated by the demands of a college setting, and will probably drop out. Statistics show that significantly more than half of all high school students that are accepted to a college fail to make it past the second year. Military options, business or trade schools, or employment may be a better fit for some students following high school graduation. Many individuals return to continuing education at a later time in life when they are emotionally and mentally more prepared.

Make sure the teen is going for the right reason. Often teens enter into the process because they think it is what they are supposed to do. They choose schools based on ESPN, party reputation, or the choices of friends. Prior to choosing a school, the teen should have a general idea of a preferred specialization, the demographics of that school, a plan to visit the school; including at least a night's stay over, and an understanding as to travel arrangements and budgetary concerns. Although going to the wrong school or for the wrong reason is not an irreversible step, it can be costly both in time and expense.

College applications cost money. Prior to sending an application to a school, take the time to be sure a student has a reasonable chance at acceptance. Compare SAT, ACT and similar test scores, as well as student GPA to the required levels of that school. The average student need not send more than three applications according to priority of preference. There is no reason to rush out an application to the community colleges. Most have rolling admissions allowing students to apply at almost any time prior to the start of a semester.

A college education is expensive. As sophisticated as a teen may be, there is still the general naivete as to the impact paying for a college education may have on one's

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