Applying for college can be a daunting and stressful experience for many seniors. However, there is a way to lessen the anxiety and stress. Preparing for college applications the right way will take the burden off your shoulders. For your entire life, you have been preparing for this moment, the freedom and the responsibility. Although the grown-up world doesn’t seem so fun, you are not the only one feeling overwhelmed. Luckily, the high school curriculum has been designed to give students the knowledge they need to succeed in college. 

Core classes such as math, reading, science, and writing have created a foundation for academic creation. Statistics indicate that many students are entering college without acceptable skills in these areas. According to a report by the National Center for Education Statistics, nearly 40% of college freshmen require at least one remedial course before they can start taking credit-earning classes. This happens because of poor-quality education but is most common in schools with low funds, in which they are unable to afford advanced coursework or experienced teachers, leaving them unprepared for college work. 

So how can students prepare for college? After speaking with Herriman High counselor, Mrs. Braeger, who had important information about college and what you can do to prepare. The first step when applying to a college is research. Having a general idea of what you want to do or what you are looking for can help you decide where you want to receive higher education. You can even apply to multiple schools! When filling out an application, you are asked what you would like to study; you can always change your major, even while attending the school of your choice. “When school starts, most students change their major an average of three times,” says Mrs. Braeger. “Every university has a freshman advisor, and they make sure that you’re keeping up with what you need to graduate. So then if you decide to change your major, they help you through.” Students do not need to worry about changing their major right away because general education classes are required in the first year of college, allowing plenty of time to change a major later. 

Touring different schools can also help you decide where you want to take the next step in your education. Factors can be included such as; weather, community, teachers, cost, and value of education. These can be important when choosing a school. Students across the world have until May 1 (National Declaration Day) to decide where they want to commit. 

The second step when applying for college is finance. Applying for financial aid and scholarships can help you see how much your education will cost you, slimming down your options. This allows you to compare offers and see which schools can give you the most for your money. Most financial aid and scholarship options can be found on the university’s website. After filling out financial aid applications such as Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you will be sent a financial aid packet that will tell you how much work-study you have, which is a grant from the government. There are other forms of financial aid such as Pell Grants, student loans, and work-study. “My advice is to always go where you get the best value for your money. Because an undergraduate is an undergraduate. People just care that you have skills and some experiences while you’re at the university,” says Mrs. Breager. An example of this is if a student were to have to pay $20,000 to go to the University of Utah but Southern Utah University was free, they should pick SUU and prioritize schools that offer the best value for money, considering factors like tuition fees and potential debt.  

Utah is full of amazing colleges offering a wide variety of education and experiences for everyone. Although the process can be stressful, there are people willing to help you seek and fulfill an education that is best for you. Even your biggest of dreams can become a reality.