(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 ) If you’re a parent of a high school student preparing for college, there’s one topic that tends to bring stress into the conversation pretty quickly: Standardized testing. Tests like the SAT or ACT can feel overwhelming for students, and many families aren’t quite sure how early to start preparing or how strategic they should be. That’s exactly why I address this topic in Chapter 4 of my book, Your Next Big Step: The Complete Manual for Christian

As a Christian parent of a high schooler, preparing your teen for college can feel overwhelming. Graduation brings excitement, independence, and tough decisions. In Your Next Big Step, we highlight the biblical principle of honor — teaching students to value and respect their parents. Honor builds wisdom, strengthens faith, and lays a foundation for success in college and beyond. Learn practical ways to guide your teen during this critical season.

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 One of the greatest gifts parents can give during senior year is patience in decision-making. Students can sometimes choose their major based on the dollars earned per degree or on what their friends are doing. Sometimes, they feel compelled to pick something because that’s what their parents are asking. Haste tastes sweet until decisions are made in a rush and regret sets in. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understandin