By Nicole Lee, Staff Writer
The annual November madness is upon us and I’m not talking football. The season of students agonizing over GPA’s, personal statements, and whether or not they can stand out amongst other applicants is now in session. Students now only have a few more weeks until their UC, CSU and early decision applications are due and anxiety levels are running high through our Mills seniors.
It’s no secret that the rigor and competitiveness of our campus can cause heavy loads of stress during this time. On top of good grades, community service hours, and an overload of extracurricular activities, college applications are just another challenge to overcome for students. In recent years, numerous articles and even schools themselves have reported plummeting acceptance rates that have made it even more difficult for students to be admitted. Even the highest of overachieving students end up being rejected from their dream schools, creating a concern in upcoming classes.
The class of 2023 has only experienced half a freshman year and a completely virtual sophomore year. It seems as though their high school years have slipped away from them and they’re already being prepared to transition to another school. John Huang (12), ASB president and three time class president for this year’s graduating class shares his take on college applications, stating, “I am just taking it day by day. I have good days and bad days where sometimes the stress and overwhelming feeling of essays gets to me.” Huang had already begun his applications during the summer and has created a system for himself that allows him to be as productive as possible. Although it can be extremely difficult for students to be able to balance college applications along with their other responsibilities, Huang shared that finding a good ratio between them helps prioritize what needs to be done. He suggests “finding one day a week where you can flush out all your ideas and create a rough draft to at least get a start makes the writing process 10 times easier.” Huang personally sets aside a few hours on Saturdays to revise his drafts and brainstorm what he wants to say next.
Admittedly, it’s not always that easy to make time or even have the motivation to sit down and write. Student athlete, An Dang (12), has recently felt the burn out at extremely high levels. She shares, “Having to go to school, then practice, just to come home around 8 to start homework is very grueling.” The back to back schedules are a challenge for so many athletes here at Mills. Dang is the captain for the varsity volleyball team where practices run late and game days are twice a week. She explains how this volleyball season has taken a toll on her sleep schedule, “I sleep right after practice and then wake up at like four to complete my homework.” Dang is currently enrolled in four AP classes on top of volleyball which takes up the majority of her week. Finding the time to sit down and write her essays doesn’t really sit high on her priority list as of right now.
It is vital that students take care of their own mental welfare, especially since it’s scientifically proven that the high expectations of getting into an elite school can cause an immense amount of stress and anxiety which can lead to higher rates of depression. The misconception that the school you get into determines your success in the future is creating a negative impact on a majority of students. They are breaking their backs trying to fit this ideal student that doesn’t even exist. Take care of yourself and if you need help don’t be afraid to reach out to the counselors at Mills. Ms. Murtagh in the career center is a great resource for all seniors to utilize if they have any questions regarding college applications. Your school counselors will also be likely to have an answer to your questions and if you just need someone to talk to stop by at the wellness counselors offices. They’re all great resources whether it be for school, college or just to keep your mental health in check. Schedule an appointment on the Mills website: https://www.smuhsd.org/millshigh.
