Senior year is supposed to be a fun and exciting time for seniors, but instead, it has turned into a very stressful process for many students. From applying to colleges, to waiting to hear from colleges, to making a decision, there is a lot of pressure put on students. On top of trying to plan their future, students also have to stay on top of their own high school work and experience. The pressure to commit to the perfect college can feel like a make-or-break moment for your future.
Starting in September, NHS seniors have a class called Senior Seminar. In this class, taught by the guidance counselors, students work on their Common App application, where they insert important information for colleges to see. As they start their Common App, deadlines begin to quickly approach. Whether it’s the application, scholarships, recommendations, or financial aid, it quickly becomes overwhelming.
“Making the decision to commit to my school was a long, stressful process,” said senior Scarlett Williams.
“I was between two schools: the University of Tampa and the University of Central Florida, but I ended up choosing the University of Central Florida. The decision was not easy for me, and it was hard to have to make such a huge decision for my future at eighteen years old. The University of Tampa had always been my dream school, but due to the price of college and the lack of financial aid, I could not attend the school,” said Williams.
One of the biggest causes of stress is the cost of college. Many people see the price of the tuition at the school and think that it’s all they have to pay, but there are actually additional costs from housing, food, books, and transportation that quickly add up to tens of thousands of dollars. For many families, money is one of the biggest deciding factors.
On the other hand, many students have not yet decided where they are going to school. There are many important factors that students have to consider before finding the perfect school for them. Senior Ryan Needham, who is undecided, is taking these factors into consideration.
“When I tour, I pay attention to the size of the school. I like to go on tours because I get a feel of the school’s vibe and their student life,” Needham said.
As the May 1st decision day approaches, many students are left with a sense of uncertainty, hoping that they are making the correct choice for their future.
