Handling College Admissions Stress: Tips for Students

Last week, we talked about how parents can ease their anxiety related to the college admissions process. Now we’ll share some of our best tips for how students can reduce college admissions stress and enjoy their last year of high school.

How Students Can Manage College Admissions Stress

1. Make a plan. If you’re reading this in the summer, that is the perfect time to get your ducks in a row. Take a look at the Common App and see what information you need to get started. Make a calendar of deadlines for the entire year. A little advance planning will help prevent the whole process from seeming overwhelming.
2. Ask for letters of recommendation early. You can start thinking about what teachers you want to ask now (just make sure it’s someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths), and then ask them for the letter as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the last minute when they have 15 other letters to write.
3. Talk to the experts. You don’t have to do this alone. Your parents are good resources for many things, but they might not be up-to-date on all of today’s requirements. Instead, talk to your high school guidance counselor or a professional college planner. You can also reach out to specific admissions officers at your preferred schools.
4. Be open with your parents. Talk to your parents about what’s worrying you, what your feelings are about leaving home, and what you want most in a school. Also be receptive to what they have to say about your family’s financial realities. If they can’t afford tuition at your dream school, think about what other options might work better for you.
5. Take a deep breath. Or 50. Yes, it feels like so much rides on this decision, but the reality is that there are many colleges that could be a good fit for you. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that there is only one good option.
6. Get support. Need to get out of the house? Stop by Elite Academics any time during our normal business hours for a change of scenery and a supportive environment. Our doors are open to all students who want a place to study or work on college applications.
7. Stay in the present. It can feel like your whole world is pointing to the future, but you don’t want to be so focused on college that you miss out on the fun of your last year of high school. Be deliberate about enjoying time with friends and family this year.

Before you know it, you’ll be walking around campus and meeting your new best friends in the dorms. In the meantime, though, we don’t want college admissions stress to keep you from enjoying senior year. Contact us at info@eliteacademics.com or 720-216-2222 with any questions you have about applications or college planning.