Navigating the Labyrinth of College Admissions

By Tia Moore

As the semester draws to a close, the curtain falls on the various stages of college applications. Many have hit the submit button on their applications, while others are still in the process. The college application process, once a rite of passage, has transformed into a high-stakes journey filled with anxiety and sleepless nights.

The countless requirements for transcripts, LORs, and other essential documents leave seniors running to the guidance office. You'll find a parade of seniors making a beeline for Mr. Looi's desk in the guidance office every day, all sporting that "I need help with my life" look. "These kids, man," sighed Mr. Looi, having to answer the same exact questions daily. 

"Applying to college is like having a second job for real," Aurelia Bernier (12) remarks, capturing the essence of the seniors' collective experience. The process has transcended the status of a mere obligation, becoming an all-encompassing commitment that demands time, dedication, and resilience.

Most seniors share the same sentiment regarding applications, and it is not one of optimism. Joseph Lee (12), huddled over his laptop, grumbles, "I hate CommonApp." His frustration echoes the sentiments of countless peers grappling with the confusing essay prompts and the seemingly endless forms standing between them and their dreams.

While the application process is undeniably grueling, a shared relief exists among seniors when they finally hit the "submit" button. "I honestly couldn't believe I just applied to college as I was on my ATSA shift in the gym when I submitted it. It felt like a fever dream," confesses Caleb Jun (12), encapsulating the surreal and almost dreamlike moment of completing this monumental task amidst the chaos of daily life.

Savanna Choi (12) summarized the whole experience, saying, "It was so stressful, but at the end of the day, seeing the 'application submitted' screen felt worth it." Late nights turned into early mornings, but each 'submit' click felt like a victory in the war against stress and uncertainty.

Now, armed with essays, transcripts, and an abundance of determination, the seniors stand on the brink of closing this chapter. Uncertain about the next one, they face the unknown with anticipation, ready to turn the page on this transformative journey.