Surviving The College Application Craze

By:  Elianna Rothstein

Back to school means college application season for High School seniors. Between juggling homework, extracurricular activities, and other responsibilities, finding the time to write college application essays and researching potential schools can feel overwhelming. To survive this craze, I created a survival list to help navigate the college application frenzy. season. Here’s everything you need to know to survive the college application season.

Time Blocking

For me, blocking out specific times to work on my college applications really helps. I set aside time throughout the week to work on different parts of the aplication. Having a designated time where I limit distractions and focus allows me to stay consistent and puctive. I also set small, achievable goals for each session to make steady progress. 

Staying Organized

With college applications comes a lot of deadlines and important dates. To stay on top of everything, it’s helpful to create a list of key events, such as college visits, scholarship deadlines, and application due dates. Personally, I like adding these to my calendar so I get alerts ahead of time. Breaking down the application process into manageable tasks and setting reminders keeps me on track and ensures I don’t miss anything important. Plus, having everything organized in one place helps reduce stress and makes the process feel less overwhelming.

Practice Self Care

The college application process can be incredibly stressful! While it's important to stay productive and work hard, it’s equally important to take care of yourself. You do your best when you feel your best. So, make time for self-care—whether that’s taking a break to relax, going for a walk, hanging out with friends, or doing something you enjoy. Keeping a balance between work and rest is essential for maintaining your mental health and staying motivated throughout the process. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t a distraction; it’s a way to recharge and stay focused.

Make the Most Out of It

To motivate myself to work on my applications, I try to make the task enjoyable. One time, I went to a new coffee shop with a friend, and we both worked on our college essays together. I also like to listen to music or light a candle to create a relaxing environment to make the process more fun and less stressful. Finding little ways to make the experience enjoyable helps me stay motivated and productive.

Create a Support System

Building a support system is essential during the college application process. It’s okay—and even important—to lean on others for help and motivation. Friends can relate to your experience, offer advice, and share what they’re doing. Also reach out to your college guidance counselor for assistance and guidance. Having a strong support network can make the journey much more manageable and enjoyable.

 Celebrate Small Wins and Submitios

As you navigate the college application process, it’s important to celebrate small wins and submissions along the way. Completing a draft of an essay, finalizing your resume, or submitting an application are all achievements worth acknowledging. Take a moment to recognize your hard work, whether it’s treating yourself to a favorite snack, going out with friends, or enjoying a relaxing day off.