The Ups and Downs of College Applications

The bittersweet feeling of applying to colleges has grazed upon our seniors this season… feelings of new beginnings, partnered with ones of reminiscence filling their hearts. 

Many are eager to seek new college experiences and look forward to the new change. Whether or not you plan to leave home, it is still a stressful time in an emerging adult’s life.  

The enduring action of actually filling out applications typically leaves students to feel hesitant to begin the lengthy process. This, along with mass anticipation, provides plenty of anxiety for these college-bound students.  Application fees can also put a delay on submitting due to the high costs, especially if someone applies to multiple colleges.

Senior Emma Kennington is applying to Coastal Carolina University, University of South Carolina, and College of Charleston. She plans to major in Dentistry and shares her experience.

 “The application process is very stressful, but when I find out where I want to go and my roommates, it will all be worth it.”

After submitting applications comes an immediate wave of relief and satisfaction. Later comes the overthinking and second-guessing, wondering if the essay you submitted was sufficient and/or if you chose to participate in enough extra-curricular activities. 

This feeling lasts until acceptance letters are sent out and an answer is determined. 

On a positive note, most schools are now test optional. This means they do not require students to submit SAT/ACT scores. 

The seniors who are leaving home are also feeling emotional, realizing that they are leaving behind what they are so familiar with. 

Laurie Praefke, a guidance counselor, gives words of encouragement to our graduates.

“This is an exciting time. It’s the start of a student’s future moving forward to the next level is exciting and it provides new opportunities. A piece of advice I would advise to these students is to take it step by step for a less stressful time.”