16 days. As of writing this, I have 16 days left to submit my six college applications. What I write in the next 16 days will determine my future for the next four years. 

This statement is daunting to anyone who hears it. Still, it is the reality for many seniors across the U.S. Honestly, application season has to be the most stressful period of time I’ve ever experienced. It always feels like there’s something new to do or something new to write for a different school. At the same time, it also feels like I haven’t explored all of my options. What if I end up hating the schools I’m applying to? What if the perfect school is out there for me and I just haven’t found it yet? Am I limiting myself by staying in-state? This past month has been a constant battle of second-guessing myself. 

All of these feelings intensify as I swipe through my friends’ stories on Instagram, watching them announce that they’ve just applied to Texas A&M, UT, or some other prestigious school outside of Texas. It’s hard not to drive yourself insane during application season, but I guess it’s just the norm for seniors, right? 

College applications have also been the first time I’ve really thought about what it means to leave home. Yes, I have schools on my list that are close, but I also have colleges that are several hours away, requiring me to come home only during long breaks. Soon, it’s all becoming too real, and it’s no longer about sending in a transcript or working on an essay; it’s about moving forward into a completely new stage of life. 

So here’s my advice for anyone who isn’t a senior yet: don’t rush through high school because once you’re in my shoes, staring at an Apply Texas or Common App screen for hours at a time, you’ll realize how fast the time really went. Enjoy the moments now: join fun clubs, go out with friends, attend football games, and participate in pep rallies because you’ll never regret slowing down to experience those things. 

And for my fellow seniors who are in the same mess: take a deep breath and relax. Focus on yourself and what you want for your future, not what you see others having or wanting. I know it’s scary to think ahead, but in the end, no matter what you do, life will guide you to where you’re meant to be. 

Before I Lea-ve, 

Take care of yourself and trust that the rest will fall into place.