Winter Break is Coming - Tips to Get Seniors Across the College Application Finish Line

If you’re a senior, you’re probably stressed out. Early applications are in, and decisions are coming out right around Christmas-time (thank you, Santa). And in addition to that, you’ve still got ten more applications to finish, which you’ve only half-heartedly attempted because you’re keeping your fingers crossed that your early school will come through for you. I get it - you’re exhausted, finals are around the corner, and you just want a break. 

Here are some tips to help you get through the final push: 

Finish your applications before your early decision comes out in late December. If you celebrate Christmas, finish your apps in enough time to enjoy holiday celebrations with your family, or you just might end up the family Grinch this year. In order to do that, make a specific plan and share it with someone who will hold you to it. If you want to be hardcore, set up a punishment for yourself (e.g., hand over your distractions like your video games or cell phone until you meet your daily writing goal). 

Stop looking at sample essays. I find that many students do this when they’re under the gun. Instead of helping, it tends to make you even more confused. You’re a smart person - you know what to do! And if you’re not sure, ask for help from someone who knows, like your college counselor at school. But overthinking is not going to help you finish.

Don’t ask your friends for college help/advice. Or maybe just stop talking to your friends about college, period. It’s only going to stress you out more and make you avoid the work that you need to do to get across the finish line. You can simply say, “You’re such an awesome friend, but can we talk about something else? Talking about college really stresses me out.” Remember, your friends are not admission professionals. 

Take care of yourself. Find healthy ways to reenergize - things that bring you genuine joy, like getting a boba with your bestie (while not talking about college) or taking your dog on a hike. Start each writing session with three deep breaths and remind yourself that where you go is not who you will be. 

Remind yourself of your awesomeness. Seriously. Right now. Tell me three things you like about yourself that aren’t just an absence of something bad. Good example: “I am kind.” Bad example: “I’m not a horrible person.” You ARE a good person and this will all work out in the end. Tell yourself that even if you don’t believe it.

We answer a LOT of stressed-out texts from our seniors this time of year because we know this stuff is hard. But trust me. I’ve seen thousands of teens go through this process. It will, in fact, all work out in the end.