Got questions about college admissions?

I'm feeling overwhelmed with the whole college admissions process. What are some of the most common questions I should be prepared to answer or ask during this time? Any advice for making this less stressful would be awesome.

One common aspect students often need to consider during the college admissions process is understanding their own priorities and goals. You might want to reflect on questions such as, "What are my career aspirations?", "What major am I interested in pursuing and why?", "Am I looking for a school with a specific type of campus environment, such as urban, suburban, or rural?", "Do I prefer small class sizes or can I thrive in larger lecture halls?", and "How important is financial aid or scholarship availability?"

Additionally, you'll likely face questions that require deeper introspection. These include prompts like, "Why does this particular major or career path matter to me?", "What personal experiences have shaped my goals or interests?", or "How have I demonstrated leadership, resilience, or other qualities that the colleges I'm applying to value?"

Asking your own questions is equally important. You may want to investigate the strength of a specific program at each college, the support services available (like mental health resources or academic counseling), available extracurricular activities, and internship opportunities in your chosen field.

In terms of making the process less stressful, creating a plan and staying organized can help a lot. Break the process down into manageable tasks and tackle them one step at a time. Use a calendar or planner to track application deadlines, and consider starting your essays early so you have plenty of time for revision.

Practice some self-care, too. It's okay to take breaks when you need them. This is a big step in your life, and it's natural to feel a little overwhelmed. Reach out to trusted adults or peers if you need to talk things out. Remember, it's not just about getting into college—it's about finding a college where you'll thrive. This journey is ultimately about you and your future, so take the time you need to make thoughtful, informed decisions.