If you’re a senior, you know how stressful the college planning process is. This is one of the hardest, most time-consuming years of our high school career, filled with supplemental essays, scholarship applications, and so much more. Juniors can also find this time nerve-wracking and feel like they would benefit from starting sooner rather than later. I will share how I have been navigating this process and advice for underclassmen who wish to get a head start.  

Keeping in Touch With Your Guidance Counselor: Keeping in touch with your guidance counselor is such a crucial part of the college planning process. Chances are that they have been doing this for years, so they are used to the stress and anxiety that seniors feel during this time. Your guidance counselor will always be there to talk about college, or if you just want to chat in general!

Extracurriculars Matter: Extracurriculars are so so SO important when applying to colleges. For rising seniors, within the Common App, you can list up to 10 extracurricular activities. Why does this matter exactly? Admission representatives want to see your involvement within your school or communities. 

Never Wait Until the Last Minute: As basic as it sounds, do not wait until the last minute! This causes way too much stress which is not good for the college planning process! This applies to essays, honors college applications, scholarship opportunities, and many other aspects. 

Exaggerate, But Not Too Much: In essays, your goal is to prove how you are better than other applicants and how you can benefit their institution. You want to magnify to a certain extent, but if you exaggerate too much, it sounds fake and makes you look irresponsible and dishonest. 

Make a Plan to Commit by a Certain Date: If you plan on applying Early Action or Regular Decision, you want to set a goal to commit to a school by a specific date. Many schools offer a commitment deadline of May 1, but you will want to commit sooner than that. My plan is to be fully committed to a school by April 1, which may not seem like it, but it is a long time. 

Never Be Afraid to Ask for Support: There are so many people who you can reach out to if you ever feel anxious about this stressful process. Your guidance counselor, admission representatives, and upperclassmen are always there to answer questions and concerns about anything college-related. 

I hope these ideas helped you to gain a better perspective on the college planning process, and do not be afraid to ask for advice!