Tension Suspension

Lauren Ray
Siloam Springs High School 2009
Siloam Springs, Arkansas

Good golly! Senior year is just beginning, yet I'm already experiencing an uncontrollable stress about all of the important decisions coming my way. I feel as if the hourglass is running empty when, in reality, the sand hasn't even begun to accumulate. So, how can we handle this uncomfortable feeling? Well, my friends, I don't think we can. It's all part of being a prospective college student. Fortunately, I have found some ways to minimize the tension.

First of all, my mom whipped out a handy file case for all of my college letters and information packets. When I get something in the mail, I scan through it and decide whether it's worth saving or not. If I decide to keep it, I file it alphabetically by college name. This filing system comes in handy later when you're trying to finalize your college decisions.

Also, I've found that when it comes to filling out paperwork, the earlier the better. A lot of colleges offer an application fee waiver if you send in your applications during the summer before your senior year. Also, this shows colleges that you are especially interested and, not to mention, noticeably responsible. In addition, when you fill out the FAFSA forms early, you're one of the first people in line for scholarships. The FASFA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is available January 1, 2009, so be sure to research and find out what information you will need to fill it out and what the various FAFSA deadlines are for the colleges you are applying to. With all the money hovering around out there, why wouldn't you fill everything out early? The stress levels drop when you get all the college stuff out of the way, which leaves you with extra time for the fun senior stuff. Awesome. Find FAFSA information at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/

Finally, I have discovered a few really helpful websites for financial aid, college details, and helpful information. Fastweb.com is a great site that gives you the names and websites of scholarships that you qualify for, based on the profile that you build. Another good one is Cappex.com, which releases your profile to colleges everywhere. There is a feature on this site that can calculate your chances of being accepted into any school, also based on your profile information. It's really cool!

I am sure that we all look forward to the enjoyable parts of senior year: front-row seats at sporting events, having authority over those pesky underclassmen, going to prom, and, obviously, graduating; so don't let the gritty stuff get in the way. Sort, file, research, and relax. Promptness and organization are the keys to an exciting, uninterrupted senior year. Make the most of it, and stress less!