It’s hectic. It’s stressful. It’s the college process.
Early decision deadlines are approaching, and many seniors are scrambling to attend information sessions, finalize personal statements, and complete supplements. It’s nothing new: applying to college always comes with a certain degree of stress.
Though worrying about college seems to be universal among seniors, some underclassmen fail to recognize the sensitivity around this subject. We, the 112th masthead of The Choate News, understand that students may be curious about seniors’ plans for college admission, but we urge all members of the community to be mindful and respectful during this time.
For the college fair on Monday, seniors flocked to the WJAC to meet with representatives and demonstrate interest in particular schools. Underclassmen were welcome to explore the 160 schools visiting campus, though many seemed to forget that seniors value this time as an opportunity to increase their chances of admission. Seniors should have been given priority in speaking to college representatives, and underclassmen should have been aware of the dynamic at play.
Underclassmen need to also understand that seniors are not always willing to talk about their experience with the college process. Whether it’s to avoid a sense of competition with their peers, minimize embarrassment after a potential rejection, or simply make it all seem less of a reality, many seniors would prefer to keep the process to themselves.
On the other hand, seniors should be aware that questions about the college process may stem from innocent curiosity. Underclassmen may simply be wondering what applying to university might look like for them in the coming years. If you are a senior and are asked about the process, we encourage you to be aware of this and respond appropriately. Though you may be uncomfortable sharing your plans for college, a mere question shouldn’t elicit outrage.
The college process means something different for every senior on campus, and it’s up to each to decide whether he or she wants to talk about it. With that being said, let’s allow seniors to speak to a college representatives first at information sessions, and let’s simply be mindful of the questions we ask at such events. And, seniors, remember that you, too, were once curious underclassmen.
