August 1st marks the start of the new college admission year. CommonApp.org is now live, and rising seniors can officially begin the process of applying to colleges.
To the high school class of 2022, let this new beginning mark a time for you to:
1. Take the time to reflect on how far you’ve come.
We’ve all faced adversity over the past eighteen months or so. Before you dive into the application process, celebrate all you’ve done in high school thus far. Did you slay an AP test last spring? Did you survive the tough chemistry class virtually? Did you help your teammates achieve their first winning season ever? Take some time to think about your strengths and how much you’ve grown in the face of some really unique challenges. (Bonus: As you reflect on your superpowers, jot them down! They may end up front and center on a personal statement or supplemental essay.)
2. Ask yourself, “What is the goal of going to college”?
This may sound surprising, but the end goal of this process is not the school you’ll attend in just over a year. It is so that after college, you’ll have the tools and knowledge you need to be successful in your career and in life. The “why” should come before the “where.” Sure, getting into college is important. But so is getting out of college and landing a job for which you are well prepared.
3. Know that this is just one of many decisions you will make.
Even though deciding where to go to college will feel like the biggest decision you’ll ever make, it’s just one decision. Give yourself grace, it is all going to be okay. You’ve already made other ones, and you’ll make many more in your life. The decisions you’ve already thoughtfully made along your path will help you have the confidence that you will make the right decision this time, too.
4. Realize that there are lots of colleges out there that will fit you well.
You don’t need to be fearful of making the right choice. You just need to make a right choice. If you do your research and apply to a balanced list of colleges, the choice will be easier and feel right.
5. Take a deep breath.
This marks the beginning of an important process, which can be stressful. The earlier you can work on your application and your essays, the better you will feel. I suggest blocking off some time every single day to do what is needed depending on where you’re at in the process. It may be working on your application, listing your activities, researching a college, emailing an admissions rep, or reaching out to your counselor. Breaking up a big task into smaller ones will feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
Please let us know how Matrix College Consulting can be of help!
