As students are getting their college application done, there are still many others struggling to finish. Many students are struggling to meet deadlines, getting letters of recommendation, or even having a harder time with their personal statements.
Seniors are in their final year of high school and now need to start applying for colleges if they aspire to earn a Bachelors Degree. However, there are still many seniors at John Dewey High School that aren’t close to being finished and with only about 2 months left, students are getting anxious or stressed out. Some seniors that have experienced similar situations regarding the college application process shared their progress.
Sally Liu, who is a current senior at John Dewey said that “Students such as myself may have trouble deciding on a college essay topic to write or getting letters of recommendations. But, ways to be able to stay calm is to remember that there are gonna be people who are at the same pace as you and if needed, then we should take small breaks in between once in a while.” Liu claimed that everybody goes at different paces and it’s important to let our bodies and mind rest a bit before jumping back into work.
She even goes on to say, “When I first did it, it was overwhelming to me because I had no idea what to write for the personal statement and I needed time to create a brag sheet to ask for a letter of recommendation. Even till now, I’m not done but I am starting to realize what I want to write. Whenever I find myself to be anxious, I take a day off for my head to rest or make a plan to get my work done in time.” It shows that whenever someone may find themselves stressed due to college applications or even other problems, it is necessary to take breaks and make plans so that you are able to complete your work before the deadline approaches.
A graduate from last year, also expressed the struggles of applying for colleges. Terry Yang said, “I believe that some people are struggling with their essays, maintaining their GPA, and meeting the deadline. When I first started, it was hard to know exactly what I wanted to do for my college essay but I got guidance from the college & career office and I was able to write a perfect essay. When I find myself to be stressed or anxious, I tend to ask for guidance from teachers or friends that have similar issues as me.”
According to Yang, it is reasonable to ask for help with things such as personal statements, financial aid, etc. whenever we can. The college and career office is a great place to ask questions and get guidance whenever we need help.
Mr. Personette, who is a legacy project teacher at John Dewey, spoke to me and provided some insight. “My main goal in this class is to help students that are having a difficult time with their application. Everyone has each other’s back in the class and helps each other whenever they need it. I usually take a deep breath when I’m stressed.”
Personette even said that, “When I first started, it was sort of difficult for me since I came from a toxic household. But, I was able to go to a SUNY so it worked out. A method I would give to students when they are struggling with deadlines is separating their complete work from their ongoing work. They should make a calendar so they can look and not miss the deadline.”
Since many seniors get worried or stressed, there are many resources at or outside of school that can help, especially during this college application season. It’s useful to ask for advice from the college counselors, which can be found in room 113 and remember that everyone works at their own pace even if the deadline seems to be approaching quickly.
