As the senior college application season reached its peak, seniors had to balance deadlines, schoolwork, and the increasing pressure from their parents about the future. What once felt distant in freshman year suddenly felt rushed and overwhelming, as students were forced to make decisions that would shape their entire future. 

For senior Nelson H. (‘26), one of his biggest challenges was the constant pressure to stay on track. “There is always something due,” he mentions, “and I have to mix it in with all of my extracurriculars. How am I supposed to finish everything on time?” 

Beyond deadlines, essays were one of the most challenging parts of the process. Asia H (‘26) explains that writing personal statements requires a way of thinking that is very different from what most students are used to. “You have to talk about yourself in a meaningful way, which is way harder than it sounds.” Instead of focusing only on achievements, students are asked to reflect on their identity and experiences. 

Comparison between peers also plays a significant role in shaping the experience of the college application process. Friends often discuss the universities they are applying to or have gotten accepted to, making it difficult to avoid comparing oneself to others when it’s the only thing that everyone is talking about.

After experiencing the challenges of this once-in-a-lifetime process, Grace W. (‘26) says that being happy and optimistic helped her cope with the immense stress. She states that “…the more I smile, the more optimistic I feel. Like if I feel confident about the outcome, it makes the waiting feel easier.” 

Ms. Hamre, the Upper School Head of College Counseling, mentioned that “Throughout the two-year process, students change their minds about many different things, including their dream schools and future plans.” 

“Although the process was hard, in the end, when I look back at it. I think it was an amazing experience. And for any rising juniors to just believe and have faith in themselves.” Nelson remarked.