Feeling Overwhelmed by the College Process—Normal or Not?

Hey everyone, does anyone else feel super deflated when you start looking at colleges and comparing yourself to others? How do you deal with this overwhelming sense of possibly not measuring up?

It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed, especially with the pressure that can come from comparing yourself to others. Remember that the college admissions process is a marathon, not a sprint, and it’s important to maintain a healthy perspective. To help manage these feelings, I recommend setting aside dedicated time each week to focus on your college preparations instead of trying to tackle everything at once. Break the process down into smaller, manageable tasks. For example, dedicate a week to researching potential schools, then another for starting your personal statement. This way you won't feel like you need to do everything at once. Furthermore, I encourage you to focus on your unique traits and accomplishments. Colleges are looking for well-rounded classes made up of individuals who bring their unique passions and experiences to the table. Take time to reflect on what makes you stand out rather than fixating on comparing yourself to others. Lastly, talk to someone you trust about your feelings— a counselor, a teacher, or a family member. A listening ear and a new perspective can sometimes make all the difference. Stay positive and know that it's a journey many have successfully navigated—you'll get through this too!