Considering my Next Steps After Application Submitted

After hitting submit on my college applications, I’m feeling a mix of relief and anxiety. Now that this big step is done, I’m wondering what I should be doing in the meantime while I wait for decisions. Are there particular things you all did after sending in your applications to stay productive or prepare yourself further? I’m open to suggestions on tasks or even ways to de-stress during this waiting period. Thanks!

Firstly, congratulations on completing the application process! It's a significant achievement. One way to remain proactive during this period is to start seeking external scholarships if you haven't already. There are countless scholarships out there that can support your college education, and they're not all based on academic performance. Many also honor service to community, personal experiences, talents, and career interests. Compiling a list and beginning the application process can keep you engaged and potentially ease your future financial burden.

Preparing for college itself is another important task. You could practice skills that will make your transition to campus life smoother, such as cooking, doing laundry, managing finances, etc. Visiting college forums to get a glimpse of campus life, speaking to alumni about their experiences, or even picking up the subject syllabus and doing some advanced reading could be helpful.

Regarding dealing with anxiety, consider engaging in activities that take your mind off college admissions. This might include delving deeper into activities you enjoy, spending quality time with family and friends, reading, meditating, or working on a creative project. Exercise may also be beneficial, as it's proven to reduce stress and improve mood.

Lastly, stay connected with your school counselor. They may be able to provide updates on your applications and help guide you through the next steps once the decisions start rolling in. Good luck with everything!