MIDVALE, UT — As seniors get ready for college there are many steps to take to find the right place. College applications can be both exciting and overwhelming.
It can be very challenging, especially if you are applying out of state; seniors are recommended to use the Common App. Major components of the application include an essay, GPA, and a detailed description of your rigorous class schedule, extracurricular activities, accomplishments, and social work experiences both in and outside of high school.
As a senior myself, I feel the process is very challenging and stressful, especially when balancing schoolwork, extracurriculars, and jobs outside of school. Scholarships being another stressful part for many seniors, but our school counselors have gone above and beyond with greensheets every month including deadlines, and many scholarship opportunities which make things so much easier to track.
Senior Vidushi Shelat says the process is “very overwhelming,” especially since she’s applying to several competitive colleges. One of the biggest challenges for her is “The challenges I face is like social pressure, and the overall anxiety of waiting for a decision and submitting the application.” To stay on top of everything, Vidushi wrote down ideas and essays just so she can stay organized over the summer. Later she added she can’t wait to graduate and be done.
Another senior, Ananya Challagolla, shares, “It’s kind of overwhelming figuring out colleges lists and writing all of their required essays.” On average, one application took her an entire week. She faced challenges with essay reviews and knowing what kind of extracurriculars to include, since she is planning to attend college out of state.
Ultimately, senior year can be very stressful, but the right strategies will get you to your dream college. Both seniors advised upcoming seniors to start writing their ideas down—whether it’s their extracurriculars, essays, or just writing down the majors and colleges they are interested in. This way you’re ready and prepared by senior year.