Preparing Students for Post-Secondary Education: A Guide for Parents

As we approach the exciting and often overwhelming journey of post-secondary education, it’s essential to ensure that both students and their families are well-prepared for the transition. I’m Aynsley Sasaki, Director of School Counselling at King’s-Edgehill School, and my role is to support our Grade 12 students as they navigate this pivotal stage in their lives. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or supporter, your involvement can make a significant difference in how smoothly this transition goes. Here’s a guide on how you can support your child as they prepare for life beyond KES.

Understanding the landscape of post-secondary education can be daunting, but thorough research can help demystify the process. Here are some things to consider:

University websites: Spend time exploring the websites of potential universities and colleges. Look for details about their programs, admissions criteria, tuition fees, and residence options. This information is crucial for making informed decisions.

Campus tours: If possible, take campus tours to get a feel for the environment and culture of the institutions. If you are planning to attend a local school many universities have open houses, if you can’t visit in person many also offer virtual tours.

Educational magazines: Publications like Maclean’s Magazine offer comprehensive overviews and articles about Canadian post-secondary institutions. Similar resources are available for institutions in the US and the UK.

Financial planning is a crucial aspect of preparing for post-secondary education. Here’s what you need to consider:

Cost estimates: For domestic students in Canada, the average cost of university is between $20,000 and $30,000 per year, while college can be about half of that. For international students, costs can be significantly higher, so it’s important to factor this into your planning.

Budgeting and saving: Discuss what financial resources you have available, including any savings, and how much you can contribute. Determine whether your child will need to apply for scholarships, work part-time, or take out student loans.

Financial aid: Explore options for financial aid and student loans. Understanding these options early can help your child make informed decisions and alleviate some of the financial pressures. Students can come and talk to me to learn about scholarships they may be eligible to apply for.

It’s important to support your child’s aspirations while also being flexible. Here’s how you can do that:

Understand their goals: Have open conversations about their interests and what they envision for their future. It’s normal for students to be uncertain about their career path, and it’s okay if their plans evolve over time.

Be supportive: Remember that it’s your child who will be living through these next two-to-four years. Their happiness and engagement are key to their success. Encourage them to explore different fields and be open to change. At Princeton, 70% of students end up graduating with something other than what they started in.

Additional Support
As Director of School Counselling, I am here to assist both students and parents. I encourage you to reach out if you have any questions or need additional support. While individual meetings are available, I find that group discussions with the whole team can be more productive and insightful.

In conclusion, preparing for post-secondary education is a collaborative effort that involves students, parents, and educators working together. By doing thorough research, having honest financial discussions, and supporting your child's goals and aspirations, you can help make this transition as smooth and successful as possible. I look forward to meeting with you and supporting you through this exciting journey!

Feel free to explore our website for more detailed information about our counseling services, and don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any specific questions. Here’s to a successful and fulfilling post-secondary experience for all our students!