As fall arrives, high school seniors face the daunting task of college applications. Terms like "early action" and "early decision" can feel overwhelming, making this process seem like a pivotal life moment.
But take a deep breath - you're not alone. Just a few years ago, I was in your shoes, juggling ACT/SAT prep, personal statements and schoolwork. It's exhausting, but trust me, it's worth it.
Here are a few things to remember.
• Every journey is unique
Everyone's college admissions journey is different. Some are focused on a "dream school" - with the perfect campus, exciting programs or an ideal location. But remember, your journey won't look like anyone else's, and that's OK.
• Get organized early
Managing the college application process is all about staying organized. Gather all essential documents - transcripts, recommendations, essays and test scores - into clearly labeled folders. Use a calendar or spreadsheet to track deadlines and requirements for each school. Version your documents as you revise, and keep a catalog of your high school activities to help fill out applications. By staying organized, you'll avoid last-minute stress and present a polished application.
• Make campus visits (if you can)
If possible, visit the campuses you're interested in. Seeing a campus in person and talking to current students can greatly impact your decision. For those of us who didn't have that luxury during the COVID years, campus visits can make all the difference when available.
• Focus on the essay
Your essay is a big piece of the puzzle, so take your time. Read the prompts carefully, choose one you can engage with fully and don't rush. Get feedback from multiple people - fresh perspectives are invaluable, especially after you've been staring at it for weeks.
• Early action vs. early decision
Understanding early action and early decision is crucial. Early action is non-binding, meaning you can apply to multiple schools. Early decision is binding - if accepted, you must attend. Apply early decision only if you're 100 percent sure.
• Be selective
Don't feel pressured to apply to 20 schools. Make a finite list of the schools you're truly interested in, and focus on presenting the best version of yourself. Quality over quantity.
• Take a deep breath.
The college application process can feel overwhelming, but it's just the first step in a much larger journey. Embrace the process, trust that you'll end up where you're meant to be, and don't forget to enjoy your final months of high school.
After I committed to Indiana University, I've been thriving in ways I couldn't have imagined. I've joined multiple organizations, made amazing friends and connected with so many new people. I'm happier than ever with my decision, and I promise you have so much to look forward to - this is just the beginning of an exciting chapter in your life.
- Bhavana Dronamraju of Hinsdale, a junior at Indiana University, is a contributing columnist. Readers can email her at [email protected].
