( Listen on Apple Podcasts ) As a parent, one of the most exciting — and sometimes overwhelming — steps in preparing your student for college is visiting prospective schools . Chapter 9 of my book, Your Next Big Step: The Complete Manual for Christian Parents and Students Preparing for College, helps families move from research to real-life experience, ensuring that campus visits are intentional, organized, and insightful . Step 1: Use the Campus Survey Sheet Before stepping

(Listen on Apple Podcasts) Navigating the world of post–high school education can feel overwhelming. With so many options, how do you know which path is right for your student? That’s exactly what I address in Chapter 8 of my book, Your Next Big Step: The Complete Manual for Christian Parents and Students Preparing for College — helping families classify and understand school types so decisions are informed, intentional, and aligned with God’s plan. Academic Recognition Matt

( Listen on Apple Podcasts ) If you’re a parent of a high school student preparing for college, you’ve probably heard a lot about volunteer hours and how they impact college applications. But many families misunderstand what really matters when it comes to service. It’s not just about the number of hours. It’s about who your student is becoming in the process . That’s exactly what I talk about in Chapter 5 of my book, Your Next Big Step: The Complete Manual for Christian Par

( Listen on Apple Podcasts) As a parent of a high school student, you want the best for your child — especially as they start thinking about college, majors, and future careers. But here’s a truth many families overlook: the best career decisions start long before a college campus tour . That’s exactly what we cover in Chapter 2 of my book, Your Next Big Step: The Complete Manual for Christian Parents and Students Preparing for College. In this chapter, we talk about career a

Learn how mentoring helps teens grow in wisdom, character, and decision-making. Discover how parents can surround high school students with trusted mentors who reinforce values, provide guidance, and prepare them for life after graduation.

WWW.YOURNEXTBIGSTEP.ORG Jumping into majors because they're easy, popular, or pay well is a disaster waiting to happen for students. Research schools AFTER you discover how God uniquely made you. MBTI®, Strong Interest Inventory's Holland Code®, and CareerExplorer.com all offer career aptitude assessments that highlight your strengths, interests, and ideal work environments. They won't tell the future — but can offer insight into who you are today. Are you analytical and enj

High school graduation is an exhilarating time. Freedom is arriving. Independence is developing. Opportunity awaits you around every corner. Before you pick your major, fill out applications, and plan your campus tours, there is one question more important than any other: Who are you becoming? (See 2 Peter 3:18) College is a time of formation. The routines you establish, friendships you cultivate, and spiritual disciplines you maintain will mold you far more than your major e

WWW.YOURNEXTBIGSTEP.ORG I don’t think I’m alone when I say that every once in a while, my wife and I find ourselves silently contemplating the same question, “Am I losing my teenager?” They are thinking for themselves. They are making adult decisions. They are preparing to leave the nest. Don’t despair. Your influence isn’t ending, it’s changing. “As you guide a child, so he will be; when he grows up, he will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) The groundwork you have laid spi