Your student keeps hearing “What’s your major?” but the smarter question might be “What’s your mix?” In this episode, Vicki and Sarah explore the real value of college minors—what they are, how they fit inside a standard 120-credit path, and why four to six targeted courses can shift confidence, sharpen skills, and make a resume pop. We talk through mixing theory and hands-on learning, using minors to complement or contrast a major, and crafting a degree that tells a clear story about curiosity and capability. Advising matters more than ever. 

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Your student is coming home for break! You’re excited and maybe even a little nervous. In this episode, Vicki and Lynn help you think about what to expect, how to prepare for your student’s return and survival strategies for the whole family.

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Just when you think your student has settled in to that first semester of college it’s time for a reality check.  Mid-semester is a great time for you to check in with your student to see how the semester is going.  In this episode Lynn and Vicki discuss potential concerns, available resources, and specific conversations that can help you and your student connect at this important time.

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Ever wondered why some students struggle despite hours of studying while others seem to master information efficiently? Cognitive psychologist Dr. Daniel Willingham, author of the book Outsmart Your Brain: Why Learning is Hard and How You Can Make It Easy joined us to discuss the fascinating science behind this phenomenon, explaining that most college students succeed despite their study strategies, not because of them. Dr. Willingham explained why we're naturally drawn to inefficient learning methods that feel productive but yield disappointing results. He compares these approaches to "doing push-ups on your knees" – they seem easier and faster, but they don't build the mental strength needed for deep learning. Parents will find particular value in Dr. Willingham's three-part framework for supporting student success: set high expectations, express confidence they can be met, and provide support in meeting them. Whether your student is thriving or struggling, these evidence-based approaches can transform their college experience by making learning more efficient and effective.

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Most of us probably know that getting enough sleep makes us feel better, but there’s so much more to it than that – especially for our teens. In this episode, Vicki and Elizabeth talk with Lisa Lewis, author of the book The Sleep Deprived Teen: Why Our Teenagers Are So Tired, and How Parents and Schools Can Help Them Thrive about why our students aren’t getting enough sleep, the dramatic effect that can have on them, and how to help them get more sleep. If you sometimes feel as though your student is sleepwalking much of the time, you’ll discover you’re not alone – and you really help your teen make some changes.

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Sending your child to college triggers that universal parental worry: who will take care of my student when I’m not there? As parents shift from caretaking to coaching, it's natural to wonder who fills that support gap on campus. The good news? Your student is surrounded by more help than either of you might realize. In this episode, Vicki and Lynn unpack the comprehensive support network that exists on every campus. From academic advisors who serve as mentors to professors who welcome student visits during office hours, your student has academic champions ready to guide them. Beyond these formal structures, we reveal the often-overlooked supports: residence hall staff who create safe living environments, academic success centers that boost learning strategies, and even campus workers like dining hall employees who often know students by name. We also remind you that parents remain a steady presence, helping your student recognize when to seek help and from whom. ." By understanding this support ecosystem, you can help your student navigate their college years with confidence, knowing they're surrounded by people who care about their success.

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The mental health landscape for college students has transformed dramatically in recent years, leaving many parents feeling unprepared and overwhelmed. In this episode, mental health experts Dr. Sarah Olivo and Dr. Liz Seidler join us to share their wisdom and their REACH framework (Realizing values, Elevating mental fitness, Acting with purpose, Creating healthy relationships, and Handling hard things wisely) designed specifically for today's college students’ mental fitness. Liz and Sarah also address the notorious "triple S triangle" of Sleep, Study, and Socializing that forces many students to sacrifice crucial aspects of wellbeing. Our conversation offers guidance on preparation before college, communication during separation, and recognizing warning signs that might indicate serious issues. Whether you're preparing to send your child to college or supporting them through current challenges, this episode provides compassionate, evidence-based strategies from experts who understand both the clinical landscape and the lived reality of today's college experience. 

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• Much more information for college parents can be found on our website, College Parent Central
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Summer may be waning, but college prep for soon-to-be new college students is ramping up. Vicki and Elizabeth sat down to record a late summer pre-college episode to let parents know some of the things they shouldn’t bother about at this late date and some of the things that should still get done. It’s important to know the difference. We quickly realized that although there were a few “don’t bother” items, the list of things to make sure you cover was significantly longer. This episode will help you sort out the things you can let go from the “must do” tasks. Hopefully, you’ll find yourself with many items already checked off your list, but if not, now is the time to get busy.

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The topic of college roommates looms large for many students and parents.  It is common for students to feel anxious as many anticipate sharing a living space with a stranger for the first time. But with careful preparation, attention to communication, and an openness to new experiences, students can create a positive relationship with their roommate. In this episode, Vicki and Lynn discuss the important skills required and lessons learned from the work of building this important relationship.

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• Much more information for college parents can be found on our website, College Parent Central
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Navigating college with a physical disability requires thoughtful preparation beyond what most students face. What accommodations are available? How accessible are campus buildings? Who handles medical needs? These questions demand answers long before move-in day.

Annie Tulkin, founder of Accessible College and former Georgetown University disability support director, joins us to unpack these critical considerations. With both professional expertise and personal experience with learning disabilities and chronic health conditions, Annie offers a comprehensive roadmap for college preparation.

"Students with physical disabilities should start their college search just like any other student," Annie advises, "but they also need to think about healthcare proximity, physical accessibility, and campus culture." She recommends beginning this process junior year of high school or earlier, focusing on developing the self-advocacy skills that become essential in college.

For many families, concerns about disclosing disabilities during the college search process loom large. Annie puts these fears to rest, explaining the strict separation between admissions offices and disability support services. This allows students to have frank conversations about accommodation needs without impacting admissions decisions.

Beyond academic accommodations, students with physical disabilities must consider housing arrangements, medication management, and continuity of healthcare. Annie emphasizes the importance of evaluating a campus's inclusive culture through disability cultural centers, student organizations, and accessibility statements.

Perhaps most valuable is Annie's guidance on developing self-advocacy skills. Unlike high school, where parents often take the lead, college requires students to articulate their needs clearly and consistently. Parents can support this transition by gradually "lengthening the leash" while students are still in high school's supportive environment.

Ready to learn more? Visit accessiblecollege.com and explore Annie's online course "Preparing Students with Physical Disabilities and Health Conditions for College" to ensure your student has the tools they need for a successful college experience.

Thank you for listening!

• Much more information for college parents can be found on our website, College Parent Central
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