If you were to ask the average high school student what the hardest year of high school is, almost all of them would say junior year. Don’t get me wrong—the SAT, M-STEP and AP courses are definitely no cakewalk—though, I would argue that senior year is the hidden obstacle that tops even junior year. It’s all 11th grade is and more: taking last minute standardized tests to frantically raise your score before the application deadline, numerous AP classes to maintain strong academic rigor, applying for scholarships to minimize the financial burden of post-secondary education, navigating the college application process, not to mention dodging the emotional turmoil of approaching the completion of such a significant chapter of your life. Senior year is laden with challenges at every turn, but there are many ways to minimize the load that seniors face.
What you should do now:
If you are interested in applying for scholarships, whether that be school-specific or general, scope out potential options to apply for and map out when to begin the application. Too many times I’ve found an amazing potential scholarship, only for the deadline to have passed. The best way to do this is through Jennifer Kondak, the school’s college and career counselor. She has found perfectly matched scholarship opportunities for me over the years, ones I never would have known existed otherwise. To maximize your aid, ask her by the end of your junior year.
A vital part of a college application is teacher letters of recommendation. Colleges basically want a second opinion before admitting you, so ask the teachers who know you best as soon as possible. Teachers quickly become overwhelmed with recommendation letter requests towards the end of the year, and are unable to write any more after a certain point. Ask your teachers early to ensure that they have the proper time to showcase your strengths to the college admissions officers.
Over the summer:
When teachers and peers say to start your application in the summer, listen to them. The free time in the summer is a valuable asset that, if taken advantage of will save your future self. Your college essay being completed by October takes an astronomical amount of weight off your shoulders in the fall. Classes don’t slow down, and neither do extracurriculars, so prepare accordingly when you have the time over the summer. In addition, start your Common Application when it opens on August 1. The majority is basic information that doesn’t take too long, but that makes it very easy to procrastinate. Having your Common Application mostly ready is another huge stress reliever once classes begin. Don’t be a procrastinator: get it done when you have time.
Despite the common misconception that June is too late, scholarships still exist in the summer! Though they are less common, grant options are often available prematurely. The scholarship hunt truly is a part-time job, so take advantage of your free time—your future self will thank you.
While your senior year is most definitely challenging, it is also a vital transition period that is sure to define your high school career. The complicated blend of nostalgia and anticipation for the next chapter is a unique experience that still puzzles me to this day, but one I am infinitely grateful to experience. So hats off to you juniors and underclassmen, I hope you’re prepared for what’s coming.
