Hi all! Sorry I haven’t written in a while :/ This semester was crazy, I’m sure it was for everyone reading this, too! How are applications going and did anybody apply early decision? A couple of weeks ago I did a google chat with the Questbridge kids at my school (has anyone heard of Questbridge? It’s another scholarship for first generation students) and people were asking a lot of questions about the application process and it hit me again how much actually goes into each application! But don’t worry, it pays off. Here are some things to consider when you’re applying:
Where do you want to study? In a bustling city or in a quaint town?
What population size would work best with the type of student and social being you are?
What interests you, and what sorts of majors do you hope to pursue?
Those were the three biggest questions for me, and it helped to start thinking about these things early. Actually, I went back to my high school during last year’s winter break and someone asked how to best prepare for the ACT and someone on the panel responded “I didn’t study at all for mine… And I did fine. So basically just relax and you’ll be okay.” And man, you could see the college advisor at the back of the auditorium just cringe. DO NOT TAKE THAT APPROACH hahaa. A good work ethic has never failed- you will get out what you put in and it will pay off in the long run. It’s never too early to start- even sophomore summer you could do some exploring and tours. The only thing I would say about that is that while it is nice to do some early planning, don’t forget that those plans can still be flexible. You don’t have to choose schools that you looked at sophomore year if you feel that your choices have changed by the time you become a senior. Plan but be flexible.
And now a reflection on this semester- I am 1.5 years into college… That’s almost halfway through. Everyone is talking about declaring majors in the Spring and traveling abroad during Junior year. Big decisions! Even after applying to college, the big decisions never end. But it’s so fun- it’s the best part. Not really knowing and having all those options is invigorating. Sometimes when I ask people about their potential major, they say “I haven’t decided” and sort of shrink away. But I love when people say that. You could literally explore all sorts of fields and discover so many interesting new things! It’s the excitement of not knowing. That being said, it is a huge relief when things start to fall together. Like getting into college. And it will work out for everyone! Remember that even though some days you’re anxious for an acceptance letter, there is also pure bliss in having some mystery. Don’t forget to enjoy this time!