The parable of the Prodigal Son articulates the fears of many parents-their teen will come of age, go off into the world, make poor decisions, and return home broke and despondent. Luckily, in the present time we have an interim period for people in their teens and twenties to practice becoming functioning, educated adults. It's called college. Not surprisingly, the application process can consume the thoughts of parents and teens as they read popular magazines' college rankings, sign up for preparation classes or buy books to help boost SAT scores, visit campuses, fill out applications . . . and wait.

The college application process can also be a spiritual journey of self-discovery and emerging independence for teens. It's an opportunity for them to articulate their values, build resiliency, learn to discern where God may be leading them, and reflect on the path that is unfolding. It's important for parents to guide them through the process in a way that affirms their God-given talents and celebrates their entire being.

As with all parenting studies, there are reflection questions for parents and discussion questions for a group of parents.