This time of year, most seniors don’t have time for senioritis. Those applying to college are either applying early, with deadlines ranging from Nov. 1 through Nov. 15, or applying in January.
Today, most students apply to college through the Common App, an online platform with over 1,100 institutions available, so they can essentially apply once to a variety of colleges. Some local schools, such as East Tennessee State University (ETSU) or Northeast State, do not use the Common App.
Senior Luke Sah is applying for early action to Yale University, Stanford University, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and ETSU.
“There are more opportunities for scholarships, more bargaining power for schools,” Sah said.
Early action applications, which are non-binding, may help relieve stress by allowing students to find out early – in some cases as early as Dec. – what their options are.
Similarly, Sophia Streetman is applying for early action to the University of Georgia, University of Kentucky, and Elon University, “in order to get [her] acceptance decision plan earlier, so [she] has more time to plan for that college.”
Other students may also apply for early decision, which means that if they are accepted, they must commit to attending that school. Those still unsure of where they want to apply still have time to meet regular decision deadlines in mid-January.
Senior Mayleigh Stalnaker, who knows exactly what she wants to be–a woman’s health clinical pharmacist–has only applied to one school.
“The applications haven’t been stressful,” Stalnaker said. “The only thing that got a little stressful was trying to complete ETSU’s pharmacy school application while also trying to get school work done.”
Senior year is a stressful time in life because students are about to enter adulthood and step into the real world.
Senior guidance counselor Reese Henry confirms this as he sees his job as helping students who are beginning to “face adult stress.” In his view, reducing this stress begins with staying updated on senior announcements and important information.
“Communication is important,” Henry said. “My advice to students is to [always] ask questions, and make sure to follow up.”
Seniors who are looking for extra support as they consider where and how to apply can reach out to Henry and another helpful resource in the guidance office: Niswonger Care Advisor, Peyton Vance.
Vance encourages students to focus not only on academics, but also on being “well-rounded” through involvement in a variety of leadership and service activities. While some students stress about earning that coveted 4.0, Vance offers this encouragement for those who may have gotten a few Bs or Cs along the way:
“Colleges prefer a student with a 3.0 GPA who [is] very active in the community,” Vance said.
As seniors prepare for “post-secondary success,” Vance encourages them to keep the big picture in mind.
“There’s no miracle school,” Vance said. “[You’re] still going to have to work, challenge yourself, look for internships. There’s going to be stress, but don’ t let that deter you from enjoying the process.”
