College Admissions Myths Every Parent Should Know | Episode

Is the pressure of college admissions overwhelming your family? You’re not alone. Between endless AP classes, campus tours, and the unspoken competition of “where did your kid get in?”, it’s easy for parents to feel consumed by stress and worry. But what if the path to your teen’s success isn’t about getting into the “best” school, but finding the right one?
In this episode of Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens, Dr. Lisa Damour and journalist Reena Ninan sit down with bestselling author and higher education expert Jeff Selingo ‪@jselingo‬, author of Dream School: Finding the College That's Right for You, to rethink what makes a college the “dream school.” Drawing on decades of research and thousands of parent and student stories, Jeff helps families step back from the frenzy and see the college search for what it truly is: a chance to find the right fit for your child’s growth, learning, and future.

💡 YOU’LL LEARN:
Why prestige isn’t everything, and why outcomes from mid-tier schools often match those from elite institutions
How to help your teen find a college where they’ll truly belong, both socially and academically
The surprising research on student satisfaction, faculty connections, and opportunities at different types of schools
Smart ways to talk with your teen about money, financial aid, and realistic college costs
Why the approach your child takes to college matters more than the name on the diploma

Warm, practical, and myth-busting, this conversation will help you and your teen navigate the admissions maze with less anxiety and more clarity.

❓ What’s your biggest worry about the college search: prestige, money, or helping your teen find the right fit? Comment below. We’d love to hear from you.


0:00:00 When the college process feels totally overwhelming
0:01:50 Meet Jeff Selingo, college admissions expert
0:03:07 Why "dream schools" may not be what you think
0:06:47 Rethinking what makes a prestigious college great
0:10:08 An important aspect to consider in your search
0:15:07 Helping your teen find their college community
0:18:47 The power of a great mentor
0:22:00 Real talk about paying for college
0:25:09 Why Plan B is crucial
0:28:36 Why "Dream School" is a must read
0:30:16 Parenting to Go: It's about how, not just where


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📚 RESOURCES & MENTIONS
Dream School: Finding the College That’s Right for You https://jeffselingo.com/books/dream-s...
Study: The Determinants and Causal Effects of Admission to Highly Selective Private Colleges https://opportunityinsights.org/wp-co...


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ABOUT ASK LISA
The essential podcast for parents seeking expert guidance, tested strategies, and psychological insights on raising tweens and teens. Join renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and former journalist and mom of two Reena Ninan as they explore real-life parenting challenges. Looking to learn more about how to boost kids’ resilience, build their confidence, or support their emotional well-being? Dr. Lisa and Reena have got you covered! Together they address listener questions about stress, anxiety, social media concerns, school pressures, and challenges in peer relationships. Each episode provides practical advice and science-backed solutions to help parents raise resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy kids. Tune in every week for the latest topics in parenting, child psychology, and family wellness. Get answers to your most pressing parenting questions.
Ask Lisa is produced by: https://www.goodtroubleproductions.com


❗️ DISCLAIMER
The advice provided on this podcast does not constitute or serve as a substitute for professional psychological treatment, therapy, or other types of professional advice or intervention. If you have concerns about your child’s well being, consult a physician or mental health professional.

#CollegeAdmissions #ParentingTeens #CollegeSearch