For 17-year-olds, choosing a career path and college amidst everything going on is surely a daunting challenge. Millions apply to college every year, so from scholarships to writing the perfect essay, the stress of the process is no stranger. In fact, 88% of students experience high levels of anxiety and tension during application season.
The Wait: Managing Anxiety and Expectations
The most uncertain part is the wait. From sleepless nights to constantly refreshing the email inbox, you are constantly anxious. For international applicants, the process can be even tougher, with concerns about homesickness, paying off student loans, getting internships, having a social life, and maintaining good grades.
Many concentrate on rankings instead of finding which university suits them better in terms of program strengths, opportunities, and personal goals. Sure, earning a Bachelor’s degree from an Ivy League school is impressive, but is it really the end-all and be-all? Not really. The Ivies, while prestigious, do not cater to all students or all majors.
How Can You Manage This Stress?
Start Early: Begin your applications timely. Keep a checklist of deadlines and requirements. Setting small goals for yourself is an effective way to avoid burnout while staying productive. Create your applications to indicate your interest and background in the prospective program.
Prepare Documents: Ensure you have necessary documents like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and statements of purpose before the submission deadline. Also, pay attention to specific requirements for the intended program and university.
Test Requirements: Attempt standardised tests like the SAT/ACT/GMAT/GRE and English proficiency tests such as IELTS/TOEFL/DET well in advance. This way, you won’t need to stress about last-minute preparations or overwhelm yourself.
Research: Apply to a mix of schools— “safeties,” “targets,” and “reach” schools—this gives you a wider range of possibilities.
Prioritise Your Wants: Focus on what matters to you: program strength, career goals, research opportunities, location, or financial aid options.
Information Sessions: Attend webinars or virtual campus tours organised by universities. Connect with current students, alumni, and faculty for insights that will benefit your decision-making process.
Take Care of Yourself: Pay attention to your mental and physical health. As hard as it may be, try not to put in late nights working. Take time off and rest. Play a sport, meditate, or watch a movie if it relieves stress.
Seek Support: You are not alone. Rely on family, friends, or counsellors. Often, reaching out makes a big difference in managing the stress of the application process.
The Bigger Picture
What to Study: Choosing a course is one of the most daunting decisions. All this internal conflict can get tiring. You can lighten the stress by exploring your interests and strengths. You can even take career aptitude tests or talk to professionals in the fields that you could be interested in. Join internships or volunteer to get a hands-on feel. Your major does not define your entire career; many people work in unrelated fields. Choose a subject that excites you, and stay open to changing directions if needed.
What to Do Once You Are There: International students are looking at a completely different environment where the expectations academically, culturally, and socially are at a faster pace compared to their home country. Once you arrive, give yourself time to adjust. You can attend orientation programs and join student organisations/clubs to build a support network. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s from academic advisors, professors, or mental health and college counsellors.
What Happens After You Graduate: Perhaps, this final stage of the journey is very anxiety-provoking: life after graduation. The pressure is massive to find a job, especially in a foreign country. Start planning for after graduation early through your university resources: attend workshops and networking events; consider internships or part-time jobs that could lead to full-time opportunities. If you’re worried about visas or work permits, begin researching your options well in advance. Remember, it’s okay to feel uncertain—many graduates take time to find their path.
Future Applicants
Understand the Process: Familiarise yourself with the application process early on. Several types of tests would be required for college applications, in addition to extracurricular activities, etc.
Work on Your Profile: Focus on creating a good academic and extracurricular profile. Ensure you get your desired score on standardised tests you’re planning to take. Focus on activities that relate to your intended major.
Why This Matters Now
As we approach November—the period when application deadlines are fast approaching—it’s essential to keep these strategies in mind. Focus only on what you can control. For future applicants, start preparing by researching and finding your interests.
At Oneiro, we understand the challenges that come with college applications, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re deciding what to study, where to apply, or how to manage time, remember that you’re not alone. You’ve got this!
