The College Connection is your guide to all things college.  It will provide parents and kids with useful tips, helpful insights and up-to-the-minute information about preparing for college, surviving the admissions process, as well as trends and life on campus.  Stick with me, and the transition from high school to college will be a breeze.

I know it’s summertime and they don’t want to think about school, but it’s actually a good time to get some things about preparing for college applications out of the way. Show your teens this information:

• Getting Started on College Applications.  To expedite the college application process, use the Common Application, which allows students access, online and in print, to over 400 colleges and universities. The 2010-2011 application will be available August 1st at: www.commonapp.org No need to wait until fall to start to fill it out.

• College Essays. If possible, get started on your college essays this summer. Begin by writing an approximately 500-word essay on a topic of your choice that “shows” (not tells) about you: your values, your insights, your feelings.  This core essay will fulfill the requirement for the Common App and hopefully serve you well.

Meanwhile, moms and dads, for your college-bound freshmen, be sure to take care of their insurance and healthcare needs, including the following:

• Health. Clarify your child's coverage while she’s away at college, especially if she’s out-of-state.

• Property. Confirm whether your current homeowner's policy covers your child's property at school. Many colleges will provide property insurance (for a nominal fee) up to a limited amount.

• Computer.  Many schools offer four-year service contracts through their IT (Information Technology) department for computers that are purchased directly through the school.

• Healthcare Waivers. Once your child turns 18, you’ll no longer be speak on their behalf to your regular healthcare insurance provider unless you submit a waiver form, which your child must sign, allowing you permission to discuss their health insurance issues.  This also applies to health services at their college or university.