Checking In With Seniors Post Early Action
As we approach the end of November, many seniors will have submitted some of their first college applications of the school year. With many schools having Early Action deadlines towards the start of November, and with applications to University of California and California State schools due on Nov. 30, November is a significant time in the college application process. Many students are having to complete tasks they have never done before, from writing personal statements to compiling resumes. They are having to track several deadlines, email counselors and admissions offices with questions, and ultimately submit everything in a timely manner.
It is no surprise that these tasks are overwhelming, but students are rising to the occasion and are learning a lot along the way. When asked about her feelings amidst this busy time, Olivia Laws ‘24 explains that she feels proud of her ability to keep track of the deadlines for each of the schools she is applying to. She mentions, “I have a whole Google Sheets and Drive system organizing my schools by deadline so I can do everything in order of immediate rather than which essays I'm most interested in writing.” While Laws has learned the importance of organization throughout this process, she acknowledges that, “Doing that on top of all of my schoolwork and work schedule feels like a pretty heavy workload right now.” Many seniors are struggling to find motivation in their classes as they simultaneously work on college applications. It seems as though school work and college applications are important all at once, and it is not always easy knowing what or how to prioritize.
However, the essay writing experience provides seniors with a meaningful opportunity to reflect on their lives up until this point. Olivia Ma ‘24 says, “I learned so much about myself, like I didn’t realize I was so reflective. I get to really think back on every corner of my life to find anything to write about.” She explains that even the most random memories can translate into a 150-word essay, which shows just how much room there is for self-exploration throughout this process.
As November comes to a close, many students are relieved to submit their fall applications, while still looking to the work ahead. Nevertheless, there is no denying that students are embarking upon an exciting journey in their lives. They have already crossed the significant threshold of figuring out where they want to apply, considering everything from geographic location to the best academic programs available. Now, as they write their college essays and fill out their applications, they are imagining themselves at each campus and opening themselves up to an array of options.
