Deciding on post-secondary education can be both exciting and daunting for you and your child. Here are a few ideas to make things easier.
- Many schools host information sessions for students and their families. Contact the school’s Registrar’s Office or recruitment team for more information on Open Houses and other information sessions. Book a campus tour with your student to get a feel for the institution, and explore their new town or city with them.
- Discuss how much financial involvement your child will expect from you, and how much you can provide, before they begin their post-secondary education. It’s best to have an open discussion about these questions before they begin first year.
- Browse program information with your student to help them choose a program. Encourage your student to explore their options, and meet with a recruitment or admissions advisor for more information.
- Most institutions have sections of their websites dedicated to applying, and have tried to simplify this process. Review the application process with your student, and if they have questions about programs, admission requirements, financial aid or other topics, contact the relevant Admissions Office.
- Help your student develop a budget, but let them do most of the work. Learning to manage finances is necessary for their post-secondary education and also an important life skill. Knowing what their income is versus expenses will help them to think carefully when they spend money.
- Familiarize yourself with important dates and deadlines of your student's chosen school, but again, make sure your student takes the lead on meeting those deadlines.
- Many institutional websites have parent guides specific to that school that you can download or bookmark.
- There are lots of resources for your child to get career advice. The Careers Nova Scotia website has quizzes, info on starting a business, tips on balancing work and life, resources to help students choose a career, current Nova Scotia job listings and more. Check out Explore Careers.
- Careers Atlantic Canada provides information, resources and learning activities that are intended to support youth in understanding the relationship between Skills for Success and a successful entry into the Labour Market.