Senior year always seems to come too soon. The last year of high school is meant to create memories students will remember for the rest of their lives. However, before the fun and relaxing times come, students must apply themselves like never before. Completing college applications and all of the in between is a complicated process, with many stressful deadlines and decisions seniors must make on their own.
Most seniors start the college process in their junior year – taking more demanding classes than before, gaining more leadership experience, and participating in many clubs. Essay drafting ideas usually start at the end of junior year and their calendars begin to fill with weekends of college tours.
The personal essay is one of the most important but also dreaded parts of applying for college for seniors. They must fit the best version of themselves and who they will be in college in no more than 650 words, which can seem like a daunting task.
Here is some advice from seniors who have been through the college application process already: Senior Ami Sofocleous recommends, “ Don’t procrastinate. Get the main essay done before the summer so you can focus on individual applications. If you rush, it won’t sound like you.”
Senior Emily Rolla says, “Start brainstorming your essay early, I think it should be one of the first things you have done.”
Senior Joan Carilli states, “Use your resources and ask for help if you feel overwhelmed. Everyone around you is going through the same process so don’t be afraid to ask.” She continues, “Also I recommend making a list of schools you’re interested in early. You don’t have to apply to all of them but it’s a good way to understand what you’re looking for.”
All of the seniors stated that because of these factors, they had a reliably smooth experience when applying to college. They are all hopeful that their hard work will pay off and they can enjoy the rest of their senior year.
