The sharing session will review the special session on fathers of top students from Oxford and Cambridge! How should parents help their children's college planning

 

Salon sharing sessions

A special session for the dads of high achievers

 

How can parents help their children with the road to college planning

 

At this special sharing session, we invited fathers of top students from Langsheng and current undergraduates at Oxford and Cambridge Universities to present a father-focused session. The two fathers shared valuable insights and heartfelt paternal love, deeply touching the audience. Let's explore how these fathers support their children's academic journey!

 

 

Emily papa

"Parents play the role of a co-pilot, preparing maps in advance and providing support in case of trouble or danger."

 

(The following is in the first person)

 

1

Respect the wishes of the child and send Emily to study in England

After Emily's final examination, we asked her about her future university goals. She expressed her desire to work hard to get into a famous British university. Although we were not sure, we respected her choice.

 

This led us to investigate the UK A-Level curriculum and university applications. Our research revealed that students can select three or four subjects they are passionate about and excel in during their A-Level studies, while simultaneously preparing for UK university admissions. This approach not only ignites academic enthusiasm but also significantly boosts their chances of achieving outstanding results.

 

As a result, we got in touch with Langsheng Education, and Emily was successfully admitted to Concord College in the UK to start her study in the UK.

 

2

How to make your child stand out when applying to Cambridge University?

First, children should actively participate in all subject-related activities, such as math competitions like the BMO Mathematics Olympiad, physics contests including the BPHO Mathematical Olympiad, and economics essay competitions. Emily achieved notable success in both mathematics and physics competitions during this period. Through preparing for these essay contests, she developed critical thinking skills to approach problems objectively and systematically, while also learning how to gather data effectively for economic research papers. This hands-on experience provided her with a wealth of material that significantly enriched her thesis writing process.

 

Secondly, students should thoroughly prepare for various written exams required for specialized applications. For mathematics majors, Oxford University requires the MAT exam while Cambridge University administers the STEP exam. Economics candidates must take the TSA exam at Oxford and the ECAA exam at Cambridge. By familiarizing themselves with past exam papers, improving answering speed, and maintaining clear logical flow, students can approach these tests with confidence and composure.

 

Another crucial aspect is prioritizing school interviews. Beyond skimming through professional literature, intensive reading proves more vital. You should thoroughly study at least a few books related to your thesis topic. This way, when professors ask questions during interviews, you'll have solid knowledge to engage with them effectively.

 

3

What role should parents play in their children's path to school

Throughout Emily's college application process, we parents acted as a "co-pilot", preparing maps in advance and providing support in case of trouble or danger.

 

When a child goes abroad to study, parents should quickly change their roles from hands-on to remote psychological counseling, observe her study situation and psychological state, and provide timely psychological comfort.

Emily has always loved reading. Despite her demanding academic schedule, our family still made time for daily booktime together. We would discuss the content of the books and share our thoughts. While nourishing our souls through these shared moments of reading, I believe Emily also felt the warmth of our loving companionship.

 

 

Jamie’s dad

"Everything is divided into two sides, just like a coin has two sides. Today I want to share with you from the perspective of parents the 'other side of the coin': how I accompany my children to grow up."

 

(The following is in the first person)

The dinner that changed the direction of my life, decided to study abroad

Four years ago, during a family dinner, Jamie stood out from his usual cheerful chatter. Mid-dinner, he suddenly paused and said calmly, "Dad, I want to study abroad and learn different knowledge and cultures." I was stunned – my son still had a year and a half left until the college entrance exam. He never had such aspirations before. After a moment's silence, I responded, "If you have this dream, Dad will make it happen."

 

Making decisions and preparing for overseas education is no easy task. However, when children have clear aspirations and goals, parents should wholeheartedly support them. I made two trips to Hong Kong, consulted with numerous agencies and friends, conducted thorough research on schools, and gathered detailed information about study abroad requirements. Ultimately, we chose Concord College in the UK and successfully secured admission through the assistance of Langsheng Education.

 

He's studying abroad, I'm here

As parents of international students, we deeply understand how family dynamics evolve with distance. That's why establishing clear communication protocols—like scheduling meetings during children's most convenient hours—is crucial before they leave home. To bridge the time gap, I recommend aligning conversations with our children's schedules to build mutual understanding. Jamie and I developed a daily communication routine, which proved vital during his Oxford application journey. Even after interviews, we maintained close contact. When he traveled alone to Oxford, I urged him to stay in constant touch. As his closest confidant and trusted advisor, we guided him through exam preparation with unwavering support. This approach helped him enter the exam room in peak condition, ultimately realizing his dream of attending a prestigious university.

 

In addition, we can help children find their interests and abilities in communication, help them develop good habits, create a good family atmosphere for them, and let them know that no matter what difficulties happen, their parents will stand behind them and give them strong support.

 

In the process of children's growth, I have never slackened my attention, encouragement, companionship and guidance.

 

The importance of parents giving their children encouragement

Jamie is currently a sophomore at the University of Oxford. While he has developed independent thinking skills, as parents, we must consistently guide our children to recognize their true selves, identify their passions, learn to think critically, and take ownership of their lives. Parents should trust their children, actively listen to their perspectives, and offer encouragement. It is precisely this consistent parenting approach that has fueled Jamie's enduring passion for his chosen field. As he aptly put it: "You can't persist in something you don't love or care about."

 

 

(Pictured is Jamie's daily schedule)

Jamie's daily schedule reveals the intense academic pace at Oxford University. Yet his perseverance stems from the vibrant learning environment, his peers' self-discipline and mutual support, and his genuine passion for his chosen field. As parents, when children face challenges, we should encourage them, trust their potential, and believe they can actively confront difficulties while striving to grow!

 

Jamie Dad summed up the following points:

• Going abroad is a family decision, not a unilateral decision by parents

• Love is not a ladder to college, but a lifelong companion

• No independent thinking and self-discipline, don't go abroad

• Keep close family contact after going abroad, the physical distance can be more and more far away, but the heart should not be far away

• Parents should accompany their children to grow up, but also have their own life, and let go of time

 

During the subsequent Q&A session, the two guest fathers thoroughly addressed various questions from the audience, delivering profound insights and valuable takeaways. Even after the sharing session concluded, everyone remained immersed in the vibrant atmosphere. Reflecting on their inspiring presentations, the participants found the experience truly unforgettable.