What's the most frustrating part about applying to college?

Hey fellow high schoolers! I'm trying to prep myself mentally for the college application process and I've heard it can be really frustrating at times. What have you guys found to be the most difficult or annoying parts about applying to college so far?

Hi there! One of the biggest challenges I found when applying to college is finding the time to balance everything. The application process can be fairly time-consuming, with multiple forms to fill out, essays to write, and deadlines to keep track of - all on top of regular schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and a social life.

Also, writing the personal statements or essays can be tricky. It's hard to put your entire high school experience, ambitions and personality across in a few hundred words. Sometimes the prompts are quite broad too, which can be daunting because of how much freedom you have. It's important to be reflective and genuine, while avoiding cliché topics like sports victories, moving schools, etc.

Another hurdle some face is the cost associated with applying to multiple colleges. Application fees can add up quickly, especially if you're applying to a relatively high number of schools.

Lastly, waiting for responses after sending out applications is fairly nerve-wracking. You have done all this work and then you wait for months to hear back, and this waiting period can be filled with a lot of uncertainty and anxiety.

I hope this doesn’t discourage you, but rather helps you anticipate the process! All of this is manageable with careful planning and managing your time effectively. Good luck!