For senior students at North Augusta High School, application season has arisen. The class of 2021 has been working diligently to complete college and scholarship applications, filling out lengthy paperwork, writing unique essays, and signing up for last minute offerings of the SAT and ACT.
North Augusta High School students describe their experience, making note of specific challenges they have faced along the way. Senior Tiara Missey says, “The most difficult and stressful thing about applying to college is trying to reflect yourself into the sections they ask for. I find it hard to show them who I really am in a simplistic application.” Missey is applying to the University of South Carolina, Clemson University, the University of Georgia, Vanderbilt University, Columbia University, and Yale University. With multiple schools on her list, she says, “the differences in details necessary for each one is frustrating.” Meanwhile, senior Hannah Waterman, who is applying to the University of South Carolina, College of Charleston, and the University of South Carolina at Aiken, lists the required essays and FAFSA completion as most challenging.
Some students, such as senior Serena Mathis, have already completed the entire process. Mathis will be attending Wingate University starting in the fall of 2021. She describes her sense of fulfillment, saying, “It feel great to know where I’m going because I found a university that fits my every need and that makes me feel at home.” Most students, however, will select a college in the spring. To those, Mathis advises, “go with your heart.” It is important to consider what you want from a college, whether that is an urban environment, small class sizes, or a specific major.
Although the college application process is difficult, our students have learned along the way and hope to inspire their peers. Senior Lindsey Baker, who is applying to the University of South Carolina, Winthrop University, Coastal Carolina University, and the University of South Carolina at Aiken, learned the importance of organization and prior planning. Once you do this, she says, “relax and [don’t] stress yourself out and worry.” Waterman has a similar positivity, explaining, “the college application process has taught me that working pays off. Seeing my accomplishments throughout high school all laid out in front of me reminds me that my hard work will (hopefully) be rewarded by the colleges I apply to!”
Seniors, for lasting advice, reference the quotes below and remember that your guidance counselors and teachers are available and willing to help.
Missey: “The advice I give to students who haven’t applied yet is to do it as soon as you can! Do not wait to do it last minute because the stress and pressure becomes heightened. Also ask for help and assistance with essays and recommendations!”
Waterman: “My advice for those who have not applied yet is get the ball rolling as soon as possible!! The process can be very tedious at times and it will benefit you to get started sooner rather than later.”
Photo Credit: Ann Marie Partl
Pictured: Chandler Partl doing on college-related work.
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