College applications are open and seniors are deciding where they want to further their education. With 3,982 institutions in America, students have a lot on their minds deciding where they want to go. The application process is weighing on students’ minds and applications are not only time-consuming but expensive with fees reaching $80 per application. With all this pressure on the seniors, how should they balance school and personal life?

College applications have become a veritable pressure cooker for high school students across the nation. As the daunting task of crafting the perfect application looms, it’s evident that stress and anxiety have reached unprecedented levels. In the race to secure spots at prestigious or state institutions, students often grapple with the relentless pursuit of perfection. One student, Charlotte Tonn, shared her thoughts, saying, “Every essay and test grade feels like it carries the weight of my entire future.”

The mounting pressure has become a theme in the lives of high school seniors. The relentless pursuit of a spot in a dream college can feel all-consuming, leaving little room for personal growth and exploration. Mikayla Tam, a Faith student, summed it up, stating, “It’s like we’re constantly balancing between our futures and the stark reality of the stressful admissions process.” This pressure has given rise to challenges, forcing students to navigate a maze of expectations, fears, and aspirations as they approach the pivotal moment of submitting their applications.

In the whirlwind of the modern college application process, high school seniors are grappling with unprecedented levels of pressure and stress. Many high school seniors feel that college applications are a pursuit of perfection mixed with competition and the weight of expectations.

Mrs. Clifford, one of Faith’s high school counselors, said “ The most important part of the process is to make sure students are working on their applications now and not putting them” and said that students should “come in and ask the counselors questions” to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible.

While the admissions journey is challenging, it’s essential to remember that true education lies not just in getting into your dream college but also in the personal growth and self-discovery that applications and college life can foster. As we navigate the college application maze, let us not forget the importance of balancing our schools and personal lives while preparing for our futures at college.