Hello, friends! I recently tackled the dreaded college application process and finished my senior year, which means I learned a lot. Here are 8 things that I wish I could tell myself if I could start over:
- Don’t underestimate yourself. Throughout the process, you might feel incredibly overwhelmed. You might think that your GPA, standardized test scores, or resume are insufficient for a school/scholarship to accept you. Don’t let that doubt stop you from applying for something. You might surprise yourself!
- Choose a major that you love. Growing up I always thought I would pick a lucrative major. My initial plan was to major in environmental engineering or something in the realm of STEM; however, I love history and writing. I am truly passionate about current events and the world that we live in. Because of this, constant internal conflict I was torn on between stability and passion. After months of thinking, I finally chose political science/IR. I believe that this major will give me the most fulfillment and allow me to truly appreciate the world that we live in.
- Learn to love essay writing. I love to write, but some of my friends found writing to be the most stressful part of the whole process. I understand that writing is definitely not everyone’s cup of tea, but when you are writing it is important to sound genuine an passionate– so write about something you truly care about. Once you have a solid idea the essay will start to write itself.
- Don’t got to a certain college because of your friend. This “thing” didn’t impact be, but I noticed that some of my friends had great difficulty choosing a college because they were stuck on whether they should attend one with their friend. I love my friends to pieces, but I know that at the end of the day, they will still be a part of my life if they are true friends.
- Ask your English teacher to edit your essays. This one is the most important, in my opinion, because an English teacher has experience with essay writing. They understand that essays must sound cohesive and fluid. Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Also, once you finish your college hunt, give teacher that helped you a “thank you” to express your gratitude.
- Don’t be overconfident. I know I said don’t underestimate yourself, but it is also important to be leveled. One of my friends decided to apply to schools that were more of a reach– she got rejected 5/6 of the schools, and was then forced to go to her least favorite option because that was the only one she could attend. Don’t give yourself unnecessary stress. Apply anywhere and everywhere, but also make sure you have a few safe schools in your back pocket.
- Spend lots of time with your family. I think when senior year rolls around many students think about how that the days they spend with their family are numbered, which creates excitement for many students. However, it’s important to spend time with your mom, dad, and siblings because even though college doesn’t mean complete immersion into the real world, it does limit the amount of time you will see your family. (Love you guys! ❤️)
- Let go of disappointment. At the end of the day, you will attend a university that is the best fit for you. Even if you didn’t get into your first, second, or even third choice university you will still be accepted somewhere and get a quality education. Let go of any feeling from rejection, and be excited for the new chapter in your life.
If you are currently or will soon be attacking the college application process good luck!
Also: those of you who have completed the college application process or senior year, what is your biggest tip? 🙂
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