What scares people about the college admission process?

Why do people find the college admission process intimidating? Is it all about competition, or are there other parts that make it nerve-wracking? I'd love to hear what current college students find challenging.

There are indeed a number of factors that can make the college admissions process intimidating for applicants, many of which extend beyond mere competition. However, it's good to remember that everyone's experience varies based on their unique perspectives and circumstances. Here are a few common reasons:

1. High Stakes: The college admission process determines where a student will study for the next several years of their life, which could influence their future career and personal development. Thus, many students feel that there's a lot riding on their applications.

2. Uncertainty: Many parts of the process are out of applicants' hands once their applications are submitted. Waiting for responses from schools can create anxiety, as students have no control over admissions decisions.

3. Complexity: The process itself can be complex and overwhelming. There are essays to write, deadlines to keep track of, potential interviews, recommendations to obtain, and applications to fill out. The sheer amount of tasks can be daunting.

4. Cost: The financial aspects related to applications and college education can cause stress. The application fees themselves can add up, and then there's the fact that college is a significant financial investment, which leads to weighing scholarship options and understanding financial aid packages.

5. Competition: Lastly, competition is indeed a major factor, especially when applying to highly selective universities. Seeing others with high achievements can sometimes lead students to doubt their own chances of admission.

These aspects can seem overwhelming, but it's important to remember that there are plenty of resources available to support applicants throughout this process. Breaking down tasks into manageable pieces, staying organized, and seeking support from colleges' admissions offices, guidance counselors, or services like CollegeVine can help alleviate the stress.