The first semester of senior year is always stressful. Students are not only applying to college, but first deciding where to apply and what they would like to study. As a senior, I’ve been in that stressful place, and I still have yet to submit an application. However, there are a few changes I made to my mindset that made it a lot easier to make a list of colleges (though mine is still in progress).

Firstly, location. Some people don’t want to go far from home, but others want a new environment. Don’t waste time applying to schools in places you can’t see yourself living and enjoying. Some smaller things to think about are whether the city a college is located in has your favorite restaurants or shopping—not every city has a Chick-fil-A within a fifteen mile radius. 

Secondly, areas of study. Not every senior knows what they want to study, and that is okay. Colleges allow you to change your major, and a lot of schools don’t require you to declare a major until a certain year. Once you actually get to the school, there is often more leniency than you would expect. But when exploring schools, make sure to check out their list of majors and programs. If you see absolutely nothing you might even be slightly interested in, it probably isn’t the school for you. Likewise, if you are torn between very different majors or have no clue what you want to study, check out schools with wide varieties of majors, or even ones with dual-degree programs, double majors, or minors. If you are interested in something, go for it! There are many more job opportunities than you know. 

Next, your personal priorities. Are there any specific things you want to be a part of your college experience? You may be applying to college as a STEM-based major, but you would like to pursue art in college, too; look for a school with elective art classes or a painting club for you to join. Do you want a school with a heavy emphasis on Greek life? Or maybe no Greek life at all? Would you consider studying abroad? Do you want to take interdisciplinary courses? All of these are very particular personal preferences, but can make the college search a lot easier.

So, in conclusion, here is my advice:

1. While applying to college is important, don’t let it ruin your senior year. After all, you can transfer, change majors, attend graduate school, take online courses… the possibilities for your college experience are not confined to the school you choose at age seventeen. 
2. Think about what you want. If you are struggling to create a college list or decide on your top choice, think about the small things that matter to you. Maybe it’s the weather or the culture (some people probably couldn’t go without Cajun food), or the ability to take dance classes even though you won’t study dance in school. Maybe you really want good dining hall food, or a super nice dorm. For me, my college decision hinges on whether I am able to pursue two majors and be in a city with lots of opportunities for my intended field. 
3. Research everything! Reading a college’s website may offer surface level information, but you get a much better idea of what the school is like from students on YouTube or TikTok. Students talk about their experiences all the time online, and you can get a solid idea of the vibes of a school. Make sure you can really see yourself there.