Here's How Parents Can Support Teens In The College Essay Writing Process

Here’s the good news: starting now, at the beginning of summer, can dramatically reduce stress for both you and your teen. Even better news? You don’t need to be an essay expert to help.

Let’s talk about how parents like you can step in—with intention, empathy, and a clear plan—to support your teen in creating a compelling personal statement.

🌱 June Is for Brainstorming: Here’s How to Get Started

The first draft doesn’t need to happen right away. The key to a great college essay is a thoughtful brainstorming process, and June is the perfect time to begin.

Your child doesn’t have to figure this out alone—and they shouldn't.

Start with these three questions. Not only do they spark reflection, but they also encourage meaningful conversation between you and your teen.

🧠 Question 1: Can you describe a time when your child demonstrated exceptional character or integrity?
Why it works: College admissions officers are looking for maturity, growth, and authenticity. This question helps your teen reflect on meaningful life moments that reveal their values and choices.

💬 Real-life example: One student reflected on a time they chose to stand up for a classmate being bullied—even though it meant risking their social status. That story turned into a powerful essay on moral courage.

🌟 Question 2: What personal qualities or traits make your child unique and special?
Why it works: Every teen has something distinct to offer, but many struggle to see it in themselves. That’s where you come in.

As a parent, you’ve seen your child grow, stumble, and triumph. Share your perspective—you might jog their memory about something worth writing about.

💬 One teen wrote an essay about being the oldest of five siblings, learning responsibility early, and the leadership skills they developed from helping manage the household.

🌍 Question 3: Are there any family traditions, cultural backgrounds, or personal experiences that have significantly influenced your child’s perspective or values?
Why it works: Colleges want to know who your teen is beyond their GPA. Their background matters. Their voice matters. Their story matters.

💬 One student explored their bilingual household, describing how translating for their grandparents gave them communication skills—and empathy—that shaped how they interact with the world.

💡 Why Parental Involvement Matters

Some parents worry about doing too much. And it’s true—this essay should reflect the student’s voice. But guidance and encouragement are not the same as control.

When you ask thoughtful questions, listen actively, and affirm their ideas, you’re giving your child the confidence they need to write with clarity and heart.

Without this foundation, many students freeze up. They don’t know where to begin. They feel the pressure to “stand out” and don’t believe they can.

You can change that—just by being present in the early brainstorming process.

🗓️ A Summer Plan That Works

Want to avoid last-minute panic? Stick to this simple timeline:

🌼 June: Brainstorm. Talk through ideas. Use the three questions above to dig deeper.
☀️ July: Write the first and second drafts. Give your teen space, but stay available to read and reflect.
🍂 August: Revise and polish. Seek feedback from a trusted college counselor or college essay coach.

By September, instead of scrambling, your teen will feel ahead of the game.

🧾 Get the Free Resource: THE COLLEGE ESSAY GUIDE FOR PARENTS OF HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS and S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Checklist

This free download will help you:
✅ Understand what makes a great essay
✅ Support your teen without overstepping
✅ Stick to a smart timeline that reduces stress

You don’t need to guess your way through this process. Let this guide be your starting point.

THE COLLEGE ESSAY GUIDE FOR PARENTS OF HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS and S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Checklist

🎯 Summer Can Still Be Summer

College essay season doesn’t have to ruin your summer plans.

By starting early, asking the right questions, and using a trusted guide, you’re setting your teen up for success—and giving yourself peace of mind in the process.

Let’s take June to connect, create, and begin. You’ve got this—and we’ve got your back.

📞 Book a free Discovery Call today at www.callwithsaa.com
📖 Learn more at strategicadmissionsadvice.com

Let’s do this the right way—for your teen.