The beginning of senior year is a stressful time for students at HVHS attempting to get into colleges. A combination of the unknown that looms over next year with the pressure from external sources to strive for the topmost prestigious schools makes the admissions process ever the more frightening.
Many seniors feel as if they were not prepped enough for the admissions process. Sara Elsanjak (12) wishes that “emphasis on rigor” was greater in the early years of high school. Mrs. Ebel, an English teacher at HVHS, believes that “as well prepared everybody tries to be, you are never one hundred percent prepared” for applying and starting college.
A huge part of the application process is framing yourself in a brand. Through essays, your transcript, and extracurriculars, students portray their effort and interests. For example, Elsanjak wants colleges to see that she that she is “hardworking and willing to challenge” herself.
During all this stress many students struggle to look past the primary choices. Ebel encourages students to ponder “which school will be the best school for you.” Some important things to consider are the size of the school, the majors they offer, price, and location. Ebel adds she wants students to know that “most of the time you are going to end up where you are meant to be, and if not, you can always transfer.”
Seniors may be stressed out now but, in a few months, this whole process will be over, and they will begin a new chapter where they end up. For now, give your senior friends a little extra grace as they are in the midst of the intense application process.
