PERSONALLY, I think the term “Helicopter Parents” was invented by college administrators who don’t want parents looking at what they’re getting for the enormous sums colleges are sucking out of their wallets.

You want college students to be independent? Don’t count their parents’ income in when calculating what they can pay. Colleges are all about students’ independence, except for the financial kind. And if you treat college students as financially dependent, don’t be surprised if the folks who are paying the piper think they have a right to call the tune. After all, unlike in 1975, they’re now protecting an enormous investment.