The college application process can be stressful! But, there are definitely ways to make it more manageable. Here are some tips to help you out…

1. Give yourself deadlines. I get that it’s hard not to procrastinate. But, college work is definitely not something that you want to pile up.
   1. Recommended timeline:
      1. Finish your ACTs/SATs before senior year starts.
         1. If you do, you won’t have to stress out about testing while also working on essays.
      2. Work on your Common App essay during the summer.
         1. Supplements come out in August. So, while you have the time to only focus on your Common App, do it.
         2. Common app essay prompts are usually the same each year so you can start brainstorming early. Click this link to check out some prompts and come up with ideas for your essay: https://www.commonapp.org/apply/essay-prompts
      3. Start your supplements when they come out.
         1. They come out on different days depending on the college. Don’t stress out if some of yours are not out yet.
2. Use your resources.
   1. Ms. Michalak and Ms. Nelson give great advice. They provide actual direction, so go to them whether you are going through writer’s block or feel that you’re doing great.
3. Understand that this is going to be a long and hard process.
   1. Creativity doesn’t occur overnight. Give your pieces time. There is always something that can be improved.
   2. Write your shitty first drafts. Instead of wasting time writing your ‘best’ essay from the start, get your backbones done. Then, flesh out your ideas.
   3. Accept criticism. People who are spending the time to read your essays only want to help you out.