The Mental Stress of College Application Time
As seniors, we all remember the stress of applying to college, let alone choose where we want to spend the next four years of our lives. This stress can also bring a lot of excitement for the future ahead of us.e idea of moving away from home is overall terrifying, there is no way of getting around that. But with that the excitement kicks in as well. We are starting to become independent on our own; Living, shopping, meeting new people and friends. College is the way we find what we love to do and who we want to be as people. Stress and excitement are the most overwhelming emotions at this time, especially when it comes to making a final decision. I mean think about it.
We spent so much time applying for colleges, making sure our grades are good and fit the requirements for our dream school, and when we think about it, all that work is the stressful part. When we get the letters of acceptance we have a plan set; that’s where we want to go and spend our lives. The second part of the stress that comes with college is the other choices you have. Making the final decision about which college to attend is the first in the long line of “life choices.” However, this particular decision is not the student’s alone. It is a family decision. The student is the one going to college, but the parents are the ones (generally) paying for it. Students need to take into consideration the input of those around them.
For others who are about to apply for college, a lot of things must be put into consideration : Being open about other colleges. Just because you do not get into the college you wanted, there are still other colleges and options available. It’s key to keep an open mind. Another thing that is important to remember is making sure you take a stress free break. You might think time is limited but it is key to not overwhelm yourself too much so make sure to have some time for yourself. Talking to family and friends about the stress and issues you are dealing with during this time, and most importantly using college resources to help with admission! I spoke to Natalie Pedrazzi, a Senior this year at HF and asked her how she managed her stress while working on college admission. “I went on my phone, colored, and had some snacks/food. After my essay, I took a big break then finished filling everything out”, she stated. Taking a break, especially in between the big writing process since it is the most stressful part. The method’s Natalie stated we're great and in the artilce, 6 Ways toFight College Application Stress (https://www.collegedata.com/resources/prepare-and-apply/stressed-out-about-getting-in-how-to-cope) goes into further detail of what to do when being stressed for college applications deadlines. The article lists and states,
“1. Breathe.
2. Organize your apps. Many students report this is the best way to stop worrying about your applications…
3. Reduce essay stress by telling your story.
4. Apply to a college you like that will probably admit you. This way, you'll know you have a college to attend.
5. Apply to at least one college that is test-optional if you are concerned about your test scores. 6. Ask an adult to proof and review your applications so you are confident there are no mistakes or omissions.”
It is important to manage your time especially when dealing with College Admissions. Admission season is incredibly competitive. Article from College Vine titled How to Deal with College Admissions, talks about rejection and the competitive nature of the application process; “Rejection is a fact of life in the college application process, even if you’re an exceptionally strong applicant—top schools attract many more qualified applicants than they can actually admit. You can’t eradicate the possibility of rejection, but you can anticipate it and come to terms with it in advance, and that can help head off some of your anxiety about applying to college.”
The very thought of leaving your home to go to University for the next four years of your life is terrifying and exciting. College admission is a scary time, but staying focused and giving yourself enough time to take a break and look a the work that you have accomplished, especially during a global Pandemic, is very important.