When should you start thinking about college? Earlier than you think.

It's no surprise that college admissions have become more competitive than ever before. As a parent, if you're relying on your own experience to guide your child through the college application process, unfortunately, it won't be enough. The landscape has changed dramatically.

One major difference is the decline in acceptance rates. Just think about this: in 2004, Bowdoin College had an acceptance rate of around 20%. Today, that rate has dropped to just 7%. Similarly, Harvard's acceptance rate was about 10% in 2004, but it's now a mere 3.5%. In just twenty years, elite schools have been come around three times harder to get into.

That means grades matter more than ever, and they matter earlier in a student's academic journey. In the past, a highly competitive student could make up for a few lower grades in freshman or sophomore year with excellent grades in later years. But now, due to grade inflation and increased pressure to secure admission, top students can't afford to risk a drop in their GPA during their first two years of high school. Even if it’s healthy and natural for students to learn and grow academically during their freshman and sophomore years, the pressure to maintain a high GPA from the start has become a necessary reality.

Course load and academic rigor also play a significant role in college admissions. Regardless of how prestigious a high school may be, top colleges expect students to take the most challenging coursework available. In the past, this wasn't always the case, especially at elite prep schools. However, in today's hyper-competitive landscape, students who haven't taken advanced math, a foreign language for four years, or the core science courses (biology, chemistry, and physics) are likely to be rejected before further consideration. Admissions committees have so many deserving applicants that they prioritize those who have met or exceeded the required coursework.

This situation is far from ideal. When students enter high school at the age of thirteen, most haven't fully developed the organization and study skills necessary to excel right from the start. Some may not realize that skipping a science class or dropping down a level in math can have long-term consequences. And let's not forget about the stress of preparing for the ACT or SAT and building an impressive extracurricular profile. It's a lot to handle.

But here's the good news: there is a solution. Let's break it down into three parts.

Part 1: Embrace failure in middle school and seek support.

Middle school is the time for students to experience failure in order to grow and succeed. It's crucial to let them learn from their mistakes and understand the importance of perseverance. If they struggle and fail, it's an opportunity for growth. If they can't fix things on their own, that's where tutors or your own support as a parent can come in. Middle school is the perfect time to invest in academic support and help students develop the skills they'll need in high school. By the time they enter ninth grade, they should be able to write essays, study effectively, manage their schedule, and handle stress in a healthy way.

Part 2: Plan, research, and stay involved.

Before your child starts freshman year, sit down as a family and create a plan for their high school journey. Make sure it's practical yet ambitious. High school shouldn't be a series of random challenges; it should be a well-thought-out adventure. Just like going for a run, knowing the distance and difficulty ahead of time can make all the difference in staying motivated and reaching the finish line. It's important for parents to play an active role in this process. Seek information, talk to other parents who have been through it, and meet with a college advisor early on. Approach high school as an exciting intellectual adventure rather than a long list of chores. Stay positive and supportive, familiarize yourself with the courses and teachers, and provide the necessary support when needed.

Part 3: Foster early passions.

When it comes to college applications, a compelling narrative can make all the difference. Rather than scrambling to manufacture one during their senior year, pay attention to your child's interests and passions in middle school. Encourage and support them wholeheartedly, even if their interests seem silly or fleeting. Look for true passions and talents behind those interests. By nurturing your child's passions from an early age, you set them up for success. College admissions committees value authenticity, and students thrive when they're allowed to explore their genuine interests. So, whether it's biology, sailing, or history, guide your child toward opportunities that can nourish their passions beyond the confines of school.

The moral of the story: You've got this.

Yes, college admissions have changed, but that doesn't mean you can't adapt. The college application process is an opportunity to center your child's adolescence around education and a love for learning. Start early, enlist the help of a consultant if it fits your budget, and set your child up for success not only in college applications but also in their ongoing journey of lifelong learning and fulfillment. You have the power to make this process a breeze, and with your support, your child will thrive not only during their high school years but long after.