The college application process is long, however, I personally did not find it to be as stressful as others made it seem. Once finally completing the Common App, it was smooth sailing from there; after a few essays and completing my FAFSA, I was done with the college application process… or so I thought. Knowing of my financial status, I assumed it was clear that I would not be able to afford many of the colleges I applied to and I expected my financial rewards to represent that. After four years of working hard, I was expecting to get at least a little help. However, within the past few  weeks the acceptances began to roll in and I began to realize I couldn’t afford many of the universities to which I applied. Sadly, it seems as though the price of the university is higher than their academic standards. Especially when you’re not considered “poor” enough to qualify for financial based need.

Quinn Grevin ‘19 has already started looking at scholarships saying, “I know I won’t get that much financial support, even if I had a 4.0 all four years I need all the help I can get.” This is exactly the advice I give to all juniors and even seniors, there is still time. Take Sierra Orr’s ‘18 advice, “I’ve already made my college decision and I’m still looking for and applying to as many scholarships as possible.” It’s important to remember that the scholarship money doesn’t have to go towards tuition, it can go towards supply and more importantly food. Put in the work now so you don’t struggle later and remember to enjoy your last days in high school! It really does go by quickly.