By Sammy Silver
Applying to college is often described as monumental but scary, a process filled with stress and high expectations, but which ultimately results in a sense of accomplishment and relief. As a student, the pressure to navigate this path successfully can be overwhelming, particularly when family and society’s expectations loom over. But, with careful planning and diligence, it is a process that can be managed, and its demands met.
Parents and guardians invest not only financial resources but also their hopes and dreams in their children’s academic future. In the same regard, there’s immense pressure on students to meet or exceed these expectations. This pressure can be a double-edged sword. It drives students to excel both academically and with extracurricular activities, but it can also lead to anxiety and burnout.
The relief that comes from completing the college application process is like no other. The moment the last application is submitted and the waiting game begins, a sense of accomplishment enters. The weight of uncertainty lifts a little, and the realization that you’ve taken a significant step toward your future brings immense satisfaction. The one big takeaway from this journey is the importance of starting early.
The college application process is not something that should be rushed through in the final months of high school. It requires careful planning, research, and self-reflection. Beginning the process early allows students to explore a wider range of options, consider their interests and career goals, and create a more thoughtful application that reflects them best. By taking the time to explore colleges and potential majors during junior year, students can make informed decisions and reduce the pressure during senior year.
Applying to a large sum of colleges might seem daunting at first, but with diligence and organization, it’s a manageable task. Each college has its own unique requirements, deadlines, and essay prompts, so it’s essential to stay organized and keep track of all the details. Many schools do subscribe to the ‘Common App’, streamlining this process somewhat. Creating a spreadsheet or checklist can help students stay on top of deadlines and requirements for each institution. Moreover, applying to a mix of reach, match, and safety schools can increase the likelihood of admission to at least one preferred college.
Procrastination can be the downfall of an otherwise well-prepared student though. Writing essays, gathering recommendations, and completing applications take time, and rushing through these tasks can lead to errors and missed opportunities. Students should start their applications early, set manageable deadlines, and seek help and feedback from teachers, counselors, and peers or enlist a private college counselor to guide them.
The college application process is undoubtedly challenging, filled with high expectations, and accompanied by stress. It can be navigated successfully with the right approach. Starting early, staying diligent, and avoiding procrastination are key strategies for managing the process. Most importantly, remember that the relief and accomplishment that comes from completing this process is well worth the effort along the way, especially when you end up at the right school.