Building Skills for the College Transition

Her presentation, “Helping Your Teen Build Critical College-Ready Skills in High School,” explored tools parents can use to increase independence in their children and debunked several myths commonly associated with the college transition.

“For some of you, this may feel like it’s way off down the road. But it’s never too early to start talking about the transition to college,” said Brenner, co-author of How to College: What to Know Before You Go (and When You’re There). “I do personally believe it's sometimes too early to talk about applying to college. But the transition to college - familiarizing yourself with those crucial life-building skills - that can even start as early as middle school.”

A self-proclaimed college insider for more than 25 years, Brenner is a former professor of sociology at American University where she served as the creator and first director of the school’s first-year transition program.

Brenner pointed to three major differences between the typical expectations of high-school students and college students in time management, personal responsibility, and required coursework outside of class. She said steps such as having your student schedule their own appointments and lessening parental reminders can help them build the skills needed to handle increased expectations and succeed independently.

Brenner also sought to debunk myths she frequently hears from parents. First and foremost, she expressed that teenagers — despite what they sometimes may suggest — find value in hearing about their parents’ transition to college and experiences once there. And perhaps most importantly, she said it’s normal for students to not have it all together in both the academic and social realms right off the bat.

“Having worked with probably 30,000 first-year students in all of the teaching and administration work I've done on college campuses, I realized that it is the rare student who's got it all down by the time they enter campus,” Brenner said. “So, keep that in mind and do not panic. I promise there is time and plenty of professionals who understand what your child is going through.”

Brenner also touched on what she described as a silver lining of the COVID-19 pandemic in that many colleges and universities revamped their websites to highlight support resources, clubs and organizations, and other community-centered groups. This information can help incoming students familiarize themselves with campus offerings before they even step foot on campus.

“We feel fortunate to be able to host speakers like Dr. Brenner” Director of College Advising Gunnar Olson said. “Her parent-centered guidance shows how small, everyday choices — letting students manage deadlines, navigate setbacks, and seek support — grow the skills that drive success in college. These are important skills that KUA is helping our students develop as they become independent learners in preparation for the next step.”