As college application season unfolds, seniors at UHS face mixed emotions, ranging from excitement to stress. This crucial time is marked by anticipation of future opportunities and the pressure of meeting application deadlines. Students are tasked with preparing applications and personal statements for various colleges, each with its own specific requirements. After years of hard work, this stage is critical for securing a spot at their top-choice schools.

Seniors are focused on balancing deadlines, managing schoolwork and keeping up with extracurricular activities.  Each college application often takes considerable effort, from writing personal statements to obtaining recommendation letters from teachers. Emphasizing their unique experiences can be a strategy to stand out and make a strong impression on college admissions officers.

Senior Relle Remmer, who is currently navigating the application process, stresses the importance of staying organized. 

“The process [can] feel overwhelming at times, [but] I try to stay positive, even when the deadlines and requirements seem endless,” Remmer said. “I found that creating a detailed calendar with all my deadlines and breaking tasks into smaller steps made the process feel more manageable.”

Extracurricular activities are included in college applications to highlight students’ interests and commitments beyond academics. Many seniors participate in a variety of clubs, sports and volunteer opportunities to enhance their profiles. These activities help them to strengthen their applications. 

“Extracurricular activities make a good difference in your application,” senior Shayna Motebassem said. “It shows schools besides grades how you contribute to the community by volunteering or by [playing] sports.”  

Maintaining a positive mindset can help seniors acquire a stress-free mindset during this stressful time. Setting realistic goals and working in a supportive environment can allow students to navigate this period more effectively. Prioritizing self-care and utilizing support networks may also provide students with additional confidence and clarity.

“I stayed motivated by reminding myself of my long-term goals and what I wanted to achieve in college,” Remmer said. “I leaned on friends and family for support.” 

Although the college application process can be daunting, utilizing effective strategies and support resources can enable seniors to manage their workload and remain focused. Careful planning and support may assist them in navigating the process. Once applications are submitted, students can reflect on their hard work and anticipate the opportunities that await them in college.