Welcome to Parent Prep – Discover Top 4 Ways Parents Support the College Search

Welcome to Cedarville University's Parent Prep resource blog! We are excited to provide information and resources throughout this year for parents who are walking with their students through the college search and decision process.

Every week you will find new posts about important topics, such as financial aid tips and information, ways students can graduate from college with a strong faith, making the most of a campus visit, understanding the application process, and so much more! Last year we had nearly 1,000 subscribers, and we would love to continue adding to the Cedarville Parent Prep family. Tell friends, family, or anyone in need of helpful college search advice! Once they subscribe, we'll send an email whenever new posts are added. We'll also be providing helpful information about Dual Enrollment, our program for high school students, so be sure to tell your friends with younger students as well.

Although parents usually do not make the final college choice for their student, they do contribute to narrowing down the choices, even before the college search begins. You will be critical in asking questions, sorting through options, and helping to shape priorities. So, how can you best help your student through the college search process this year? Here are our Top 4 Recommendations:

1. For Christian parents, first and foremost, pray! Commit your student's college decision to the Lord, and be confident in His direction and provision. Choosing a college can be stressful for everyone. What better way to model faith and trust than to commit the decision to the One who knows all and promises to lead, guide, and provide.
2. Help your student develop a list of criteria to evaluate colleges and universities. Listen to what is important to your student (athletics, music, drama, good food, etc.), while also integrating the values and characteristics you wish to see in their college experience. Your student needs your long-term perspective to evaluate what is truly important.
3. Discuss the importance of higher education that supports a biblical worldview. Sadly, the No. 1 outcome of the university experience in the United States is a decline in students' faith. Higher education is NOT value-neutral. Investing in a Christian education where faith is encouraged and rigorous academic programs equip your student to succeed personally and professionally is extremely important.
4. Visit college campuses together and compare strengths and weaknesses. Discuss how a college or university will shape your student’s life for years to come. Many families visit Cedarville more than once. Our admissions staff would be thrilled to give you a tour, answer your questions, and lay any concerns to rest. You should always feel welcome at the colleges you are considering. If you are not comfortable visiting in person this fall, take a virtual tour or connect with us online. 

Parents, you are embarking on an exciting journey with your son or daughter! We'll be with you throughout the year. Please don't hesitate to ask questions or post comments. Your feedback is valuable, as we want each post to hold relevant and helpful information. We look forward to serving you this year!

P.S. Encourage your student to apply to Cedarville University by November 1 using our easy-to-navigate online application, and we’ll waive the $30 application fee!