For over two years, I’ve logged onto Zoom for monthly meetings with my college counselor. These two hour long sessions have been preparing me for a process I knew would be challenging: applying to college.

The majority of my junior year was dedicated to researching schools, building my resume, and understanding what colleges were looking for in applicants. By the spring, I had started to brainstorm ideas for my personal narrative, finalize my resume, and narrow down the 10 activities and five awards I wanted to include in the Common App.

Why all this preparation? Because I was determined to apply early.

Early action is a process that allows students to receive college decisions ahead of the regular timeline, but the trade-off is the much earlier deadline. I knew it would take a lot of time and discipline, but as someone who is extremely impatient, it seemed worth it to hear about my admission decisions earlier so I can take more time to make the best decision for myself and my goals.

That choice shaped the summer of my senior year. Instead of relaxing and spending time with friends like I usually would, I focused on writing and rewriting and rewriting my personal statement. Every single edit and draft brought me closer to a version that I felt truly reflected who I was. When the Common App opened on August 1, I was ready and submitted my first two applications that same day.

After those applications were submitted, I shifted my focus to the schools requiring supplemental essays, making sure to include the specific values and programs of the schools I was applying to. I submitted three more applications soon after, wrote a few more supplemental essays, and then submitted four more.

I applied to a total of nine schools early action through the Common App. The first two responses I received were acceptances from The University of Mississippi and Louisiana State University, where I’ve been admitted to study biological sciences. While these are the only decisions I’ve received so far, having all of my applications submitted feels like a huge step towards my future and transition into adulthood.

My friend, senior Camilla Flannigan applied early action to Clemson University and Auburn University and related to the relief of submitting college applications early.

"I chose to apply early action to Clemson and Auburn because I knew that my admissions decision would be released earlier,” Flannigan said. “This took a huge weight off my shoulders and allowed me to have extra time to focus on scholarships and finalizing other important details.”

In the many conversations I’ve had with classmates and friends, the general consensus is that applying early action is ideal because they would be less stressed after submitting their applications. However, this isn’t the only reason people choose to apply early action.

Senior Lee Schufreider applied to all of her schools early action to hopefully increase her chances of getting into her dream schools.

“Choosing to submit all my college applications early feels like a strategic step, not just to increase my chances of acceptance, but to demonstrate my genuine interest and readiness,” Schufreider said.

“Applying early is a way to stand out in a competitive process, showing schools that I’ve thoughtfully considered my options and am serious about where I want to grow. It’s more than just improving my odds but presenting my strongest self at a moment when my achievements, goals, and vision are clear and focused. This approach encouraged me to be intentional and confident, reminding me that every decision I make now shapes the foundation for my future,” she added.

Although this process is stressful, I’ve learned to manage my time and reflect on my goals. Instead of doomscrolling, I began using that time to edit and write supplemental essays. I also heavily planned out my weeks and utilized a blocked out schedule to make sure all of my tasks were completed when I wanted them done. Now, as I wait to hear back from the rest of the schools, I finally have the time to relax and enjoy the remainder of my senior year.

No matter where you are in your college application process, whether you’re just getting started or have finally hit the submit button, take a moment to remind yourself that you’re doing amazing.

The college application process can be overwhelming, but even small steps are progress. Whether you end up at your dream school or somewhere totally unexpected, know that you will end up somewhere you can grow, thrive and succeed. Any opportunity to continue your education is something to be proud of, it’s a reflection of your hard work and dedication.