The college application process introduces a set of tasks and academic demands that can influence how students function during their final year of high school. Managing applications, looking for the right resources, gathering materials, and planning for post-graduation can contribute to noticeable changes in students’ mental health.
“I say the most difficult thing about the application process is making sure you meet all the requirements,” Kylie Jones (12) said. “Between getting the right information filled out, making sure everything gets sent over, and meeting these hard deadlines, it’s stressful.”
Because these deadlines are fixed and very specific, students are able or pushed in some cases to become more aware of how they use their time and how they organize their responsibilities. The presence of deadlines can also change how students experience this process. There’s a heightened sense of urgency which contributes to stress, while others may find that clear timelines give them direction while helping them stay motivated.
Applying for college can also influence how high school students balance their attention between the present and the future. During this time, students are often asked to focus on long-term goals, such as academic interests and post-graduation plans, which can shift focus from the present. Daily activities may be viewed mainly in terms of how they support college applications rather than their immediate value.
“I think applying has a little bit of a strain on seniors because we spend so much time focusing on the future, that we forget to focus on what’s around you in the moment,” Charlie Collins (12) said.
However, this emphasis on the future is a standard part of preparing for the transition to college. Planning ahead has the potential to help students organize priorities and make informed choices.
Throughout the stress of applying for college, college advisors play an important role in supporting student’s mental health during the process.
“We prepare students for what’s coming later on down the line. Some students know what they want to do, and some don’t. That’s why we meet with students where they are, whether that’s starting from point A or continuing from where they left off,” College Advisor Andra Brantley said.
College advisors serve as a consistent source of guidance, helping students understand requirements, deadlines, and expectations. This guidance can prevent excessive pressure on a small number of schools and encourage a more balanced approach to applications. In doing so, advisors support decision-making that is based on fit rather than prestige, which can ease anxiety.
“It can be overwhelming applying to college, so I like to come from a holistic perspective. Meaning that it should be a process rather than something you do in a snap,” Brantley said. “So you do it overtime in order to manage your stress. That’s why we start with college planning in ninth grade, then really start meeting with students in their junior and senior year.”
This period marks a transition that brings both challenges and adjustments for many students. The demands of planning ahead and navigating uncertainty can shape students’ emotional experiences. While the process may create pressure for some, it can also provide structure and opportunities for reflection. The impact varies, making this stage of senior year a complex and influential experience.
For more information about college advising at MHS or to schedule an appointment, check out their webpage here.
