If you’re a junior, you’ve probably already been told to “start thinking about college.” You’re likely in family meetings with Ms. Quin or Ms. Coleman, making lists and spreadsheets of potential options, attending college fairs, and wondering if this whole thing is going to swallow your summer, and your sanity. Here’s what’s actually worth paying attention to, from someone who just went through it.
1.Not all colleges are the same, so don’t treat them like they are.
It’s easy to end up with a list of schools that you’ve already heard of, or that your friends are applying to. But the differences between colleges are real, and they’ll shape your life for four years. Look into how the classes work, what the students are like, and how people spend their time. Do most students live on campus? Are professors accessible? Is the vibe collaborative or competitive? None of that shows up in rankings.
2. Figure out what matters to you.
There’s no single “right” college that will magically work for everybody. What matters is finding somewhere that you will feel challenged, supported, and able to grow. If you hate lecture halls, don’t apply to schools where most classes have 200+ students. If you know you want a specific major, research who teaches and what the class offerings are. The more specific you are, the more useful your list becomes.
3. Essays aren’t about proving you’re impressive.
Many students try to write like they’re “smart” or “worthy.” Don’t. The personal statement is just a chance to show how you think. What have you noticed? What’s changed you? What do you care about? If your essay could be written by someone else, it’s probably not specific enough. Be clear, not performative.
4. Be strategic about applying, not obsessive.
You do not need 20 schools on your list. I’m speaking from experience when I say that it will just make you more stressed. Apply to a range: the reaches, the matches, and the likelies. And when you look at application requirements, don’t assume they’re all the same, because they’re likely not. It’s best to get organized now, to save yourself the trouble later.
5. Don’t let the process make you weird.
It’s easy to get sucked into the game: who’s applying where, who has better stats, who already hired an essay coach. None of that helps you make better choices. Keep your head down, do the work, and don’t forget that this is your life and your path.
6. You’re not doing this alone.
You’re already working with college counseling, as well as the support of your loved ones. Ask for help when you need it. Use the resources you’ve got. The process is annoying, yes, but it’s manageable if you stay organized, use your support system, and stay honest with yourself about what you want.
There’s no way to magically make this all over, as much as I wish there was. Still, it will be the end of senior year before you know it. Right now, just do the work, trust yourself, and keep moving forward. Everything will fall into place, trust me.
Sincerely,
A Senior Who’s Glad It’s Over
