How to Respond When Your Parent’s Questions About College Get Under Your Skin

College planning can be a tough enough experience for a teen without having to field a ton of questions from dad, mom, and every other adult in existence. We’re going to look at a few ways you can respond when your parents and others are getting under your skin while still being respectful.

Which Colleges Are You Applying To?

Mom and dad have a right to know where you intend to go, but what if you are still deciding? Or maybe there is a school you really hope to get into but don’t want the embarrassment if your application isn’t accepted? Here is one way to reply.

  • Ask for Advice – “I haven’t decided yet. Do you have any suggestion?” This allows you to be honest and at the same time honors your parents with the opportunity to make a suggestion (even if you end up not applying to the school they suggest).

Have You Picked Your Major Yet?

Lots of young people switch majors later on or end up with a double major. Are you struggling to commit to what you want to be “when you grow up?” Here’s one way to diffuse the question with your own question.

  • Return the Question – “It’s a tough decision, and I haven’t made my mind up yet. How did you choose your major at my age (or career if they didn’t go to college)?” Now your parents have to think back to when they were your age. They may suddenly realize just how much stress that same question caused them. Or they may have some really fantastic advice that helps you make a decision.

Your Source for College Planning

At College Planning Source, we help empower you to answer the tough questions through important workshops and services that provide financial planning resources, application assistance, and more! To let us help you get started on your journey, call 858.676.0700 today or submit our online contact form.

College Planning Source

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