How is the College Process Treating Our Seniors? 

The fall of senior year can be a particularly stressful time as students balance applications, homework, and getting some sleep. I decided to check in with three of my fellow seniors (Harriet Lee, Ellis Peterson, and Tahmid Ahmed) to see how everyone was feeling. 

The Eagle: On a scale of 1 to 10 how stressed are you and why? 

Harriet Lee (HL): 6-7. I’m trying to formulate my essays at the moment which can be really challenging since you want to write to the best of your abilities and do the best that you can.  

Ellis Peterson (EP): 8, college generally a 6. Managing sports, music, and other extracurricular activities can be pretty challenging to balance all at once. 

Tahmid Ahmed (TA): I’d say about a 6. I’m worried about how I can manage my time efficiently with test retakes and writing quality supplements while balancing school work and social life. 

The Eagle: What are you looking for in a school? 

HL: I want to make sure that the colleges I’m interested in have good programs for what I’d like to study, Marine Biology. I also look into social life, such as sports and clubs. I sometimes go on Reddit to see what people have said about the schools I’m applying to. 

EP: For me, I feel the general vibe of the school is something that people don’t emphasize enough when applying to schools. You should enjoy being on campus because that’s where you’ll be for the next four years. I’m also keeping in mind music, ecology, and research programs as well as a good school community. 

TA: I’m looking for a school that has a lot of really individualistic students. I’d say I’m pretty unique and I look for a school that puts a lot of value on people like me. 

The Eagle: One piece of advice to juniors and lowerclassmen?

HL: Start early! You might hear this a lot but you should start during the summer! Get your supplements out of the way even if your personal statement isn’t done yet. Supplements aren’t too bad as long as you discipline yourself and get them done early. 

EP: Limit your workload! Set boundaries with school, extracurriculars, and social activities. Guidance is always available to help you out if you feel stressed.  

TA: Grades, grades, grades! I regret not locking in during my 9-11 grade years. Grades aren’t the only thing that colleges look for but they are really important. Get involved in the community and start researching schools early! 

The Eagle: What is something you are looking forward to this year?

HL: So many things but especially Senior Assassin and special events such as our Murder Mystery Party in AP Lit! 

EP: College apps being over and enjoying being with my grade once all the stress is gone. Also, I’m excited for the senior girls volleyball game!  

TA: I’m looking forward to the senior trip, one last moment with all of my friends and getting to say goodbye in the most epic way. 

The Eagle: Any final thoughts? 

HL: I love senior year. It is so much fun despite being so stressful. 

EP: To anyone going through the college process, including juniors, it will be okay, you are going to get through it!