“Start your college applications over the summer!”
“Don’t leave it until the last minute!!!”
“Keep your grades up!”
We’ve all heard this advice prior to applying to college, and while they are important, they are also cliche and often overlooked.
As a senior whose time as a Scout is coming to an end, I want to share some of my own advice that I have discovered this year. I hope it helps.
1. Search for schools that would truly be the best fit for you.
I’ll admit, this one got me. As someone with a niche interest in international affairs, many of the big name state schools that I applied to did not have this major available. In fact, in 11/16 schools that I applied to, I had to compromise and apply for political science, a major only slightly related to my true passion. Of course, you should not restrict yourself in applying, and if you truly love one school and they do not offer your specific major, you should apply. College is about finding what you want to do post-grad and making the best connections possible. Finding the school that best fits is not necessarily applying to the biggest names, but doing your research on what school you could see yourself at. This process may be tedious, but it will lead to countless opportunities.
2. Don’t be afraid to contact current students.
As I applied to a lot of schools, I did not have the time to visit them all and imagine myself in their culture. To combat this, I reached out to students who currently attend the schools I was interested in. Everyone I asked was more than willing to answer any questions I had, and you should do the same. Even past the application process, I recently called one of my brother’s friends who attends a school I was accepted to, and we spoke about it for about an hour. Even if it is someone you rarely talk to, they are more likely than not to be willing to offer their own advice.
3. Be respectful of others during the process.
The college process is a stressful time for everyone. Some people have envisioned themselves attending a certain university for their whole lives, and that dream comes down to a couple of essays, a GPA, and maybe a test-score. It’s crucial to be mindful of how you are talking about this process. I’m not saying to not celebrate your successes, but I am saying to be cautious of what you’re saying. Everyone’s path is different. One person might be thrilled to get into their dream school, but another’s dreams have been broken over a rejection letter.
4. Consider your course load.
Many say that junior year is the most challenging of high school. I, personally, disagree. Senior year is, obviously, filled with your classes and also the college application process. There is no need to over do yourself with your classes. Taking on a heavy AP or honors schedule might seem like the right thing to do, but it can quickly become overwhelming when you’re also writing essays, preparing for interviews, and making huge life decisions. Challenge yourself where it makes sense, but you must give yourself some room to breathe.
5. It’s your senior year. Have fun!
Seriously, it’s your last year of high school. Don’t let it pass by because you were stressing too much over your college applications and deadlines. Dress up for spirit days, go to the football games, and be that crazy senior who everyone talks about. You’ve worked so hard up to this point, and while your future is important, obviously, so is the present. Make lifelong memories and enjoy the little moments. You will never be in this position again, so make the most of it.
