Senior year is a very stressful time in high school students’ lives. It determines the future and sets the direction of the paths that students will take in order to achieve their goals. Not only does it take hard work, but it takes focus and determination to pick what one needs in life.

There are only four years of high school to get the grades needed, to take required courses, to take the SATS, figure out one’s career goals, research and apply to schools and prepare for life beyond high school.  Time flies so fast. One day you are a freshman and then next you are entering senior year and the college process begins. It is definitely not an easy one.

Applying for college is not a simple task. Besides gathering all information on activities and achievements, students are required to complete the Common Application. This includes creating a college essay, gathering up transcript information, providing personal and family information, and reporting SAT scores.  Though schools often accept the Common Application, they may also require the completion their own supplement to the application.

Once you have applied to a school, materials need to be turned into Guidance, so that transcripts can be sent out. All your information has to be in to Guidance three weeks before the actual deadline.

College isn’t just about grades.  Recommendation letters are also required.  They should explain who you are and what you do as a person, both in school and via extra extra-curricular activities.  Every bit of information you have counts; it just adds to reasons why a school should accept you.

While getting into a school is important, so is picking the right school. When choosing a school, students should look at what the campus has to offer.  Academic requirements and offerings will determine what a student will be doing there for four years.  They need to be considered. Cost is also a factor.

Many seniors are feeling continuous pressure. Kelsey O’ Connell is no exception she stated, “The college process is unbelievably stressful and I can’t wait until I’m finally accepted and this is all over.”