To the Editor:

Re “After a College Applicant Hits ‘Send’” (Family, nytimes.com, Oct. 22):

My son just submitted his last early action application. We almost didn’t survive. What’s the big deal? Write a few essays, complete the C ommon App online and pay the fee; it shouldn’t be that hard.

But as many parents (and students) can attest, it was a true test of wills. I realized that my husband and I, both in higher ed, were projecting our hopes onto our children. Attaining a degree means that they have a chance to live a future with promise. Today, Gen-Zers often believe otherwise. They have a voice and aren’t afraid to use it in dissent. We should listen, even if we agree to disagree.

Our son finally acquiesced and grudgingly finished his applications. I can hope that the torturous application process will fade in time and that he’ll channel his voice in his own way, with or without a degree.