For high school seniors, this time of year isn’t just about holidays or cozy sweaters. After years of working hard in school, seniors now face one of the most nerve-wracking parts of their academic journey: applying to college. The excitement and anxiety of hitting submit on every application swallows the hours.

It’s no secret that the college application process is stressful. From researching schools and writing personal essays, to gathering recommendation letters and juggling deadlines, the to-do list seems endless. Each decision, from choosing which schools to apply to, to deciding how to represent yourself in an essay, feels massive because, in many ways, it is. This is your future, it’s riding on every small detail.

What makes the stress even harder is the feeling that everyone is watching. Friends, family, teachers all ask where you’re applying or if you’ve heard back yet. Although they mean well, these questions can add extra pressure. You might feel like you’re being judged based on which colleges you’re aiming for, or how quickly you’re completing your applications. Everyone is running their own race, but it’s easy to forget that in the midst of all the chaos.

One of the toughest parts of this season is the constant reminder that time is running out. With deadlines for early action or early decision typically falling in November and regular decision deadlines hitting in December-January, every day counts. Senior Ryan Herrick (12) shares he “need(s) to get it together. I’m slightly procrastinating”. The pressure to make everything perfect in such a limited time window can lead to sleepless nights and second-guessing every move. But it’s important to remember that stress is a natural part of the process, and you’re not alone in feeling it. Countless other seniors are experiencing the same thing, staying up late to finalize essays and worrying about making the right choices.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed, but there are ways to ease the burden. Taking breaks, asking for help, and leaning on your support system can make a big difference. Friends, family, and even school counselors can be great sources of comfort and advice. And while it’s tempting to obsess over every little detail, it’s essential to remember that no application will ever be perfect. The college admissions process is important, but it doesn’t define your worth. Colleges aren’t looking for perfection, they’re looking for individuals. At the end of the day, whether you get into your dream school or not, you’ll find a path that’s right for you.

So, take a deep breath, trust in yourself, and remember that you’re more than just an application. This time of year, but remember it’s also the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life.