The Current College Process: A Shared Experience
As high school seniors at Hillsboro High School prepare for the next chapter of their lives, many are navigating the complex college application process. From November to May, high school seniors across the nation, including those at Hillsboro High School, are faced with the often-overwhelming challenge of choosing their post-secondary education. For many, this journey feels isolating, but students need to remember that they are not alone. Around 17 million high school seniors across the country are sharing similar stresses and successes during this time.
Despite the shared experience among students, there is uniqueness in every experience for each student. For example, students who apply to one college find their process significantly different from those who cast a wider net and apply to many.
Decisions on Applications: One Versus Many
The Hillsboro Globe interviewed four of Hillsboro’s exceptional students who exemplify the choices that seniors face in their college decisions. Ellis Mitchell, a committed senior, made the decision of applying only to one college, the University of Tennessee Chattanooga (UTC), where he will major in mechanical engineering. “I really knew before I started the application process that I was looking for a specific group of people,” Ellis said. “Other state schools just didn’t have that fit. The second I stepped foot on campus, I knew it was where I wanted to go.” His early commitment in November eased much of the decision-making stress, and he viewed UTC as a school where he could thrive both academically and socially.
In contrast, Nola Barth took a broader approach by applying to 13 schools, including her top choice, the University of Miami, where she is now committed. Nola made her choice to Miami based off their exceptional marine biology program and its close location to the ocean. “The marine lab at Miami really sets it above all other colleges,” she explained. Even though Nola applied to many colleges following the coast of the United States, her research of the marine labs in University of Miami tied with her passion to become a marine biologist made Miami a perfect choice for her next educational steps.
Interestingly, Nola’s twin sister, Kira Barth, remains undecided. Kira is also exploring several colleges, with her current top five being Clemson, NC State, UTK, CU Boulder, and Wisconsin Madison. “I’m still waiting to hear back from NC State and CU Boulder,” Kira noted, expressing both excitement and uncertainty. “I think it’s good to keep options open and go to the college that feels right, but I have no idea how I’m going to figure that out.”
Darilyn Finch’s experience further highlights the diverse paths students can take. Applying to 11 colleges through the Common Black College App (CBCA), which aims to make applications more accessible for Black students interested in HBCUs, she shares her top choices: Hampton, Howard, Spelman, Xavier University of Louisiana (Xula), and Washington University in St. Louis (WashU). “It can become a little overwhelming due to the uncertainty of knowing colleges’ big decisions,” Darylin admitted, “but I just remind myself to be patient. Everything will work out.”
Kira’s and Darilyn’s feelings of uncertainty are shared in the minds of many prospective students who are not sure what their college future will hold. College decisions will always be a time of anticipation and nerves, students just need to remember that, like Darilyn stated, everything will work out.
Reflection on the Process
This window into the college application experiences at Hillsboro High School reveals the wide variety of emotions and strategies among seniors. Some, like Ellis, find comfort in committing early to one school, while others, like Kira, feel the pressure of uncertainty with multiple options still on the table. Nola shows how thorough research can pay off, and Darylin exemplifies the importance of accessibility in education.
As these students journey through the college application process, it’s vital for them to remember that they are not alone in their struggles and that their experiences, whether built on decisiveness or exploration, are all valid parts of this significant life transition. The next few months will bring many decisions, but with patience and an open mind, each student will find the path that is right for them.
Here’s a message to all students
Dear students,
No matter what decision you end up making with further education decisions, whether it be a state college, private college, community college, or a technical school, you will grow to do amazing things. We at the Hillsboro Globe are so proud of all your efforts.
If you are truly struggling with the college process, there are people in your school and life, friends, teachers, counselors, who want to help and support you. Don’t be afraid to reach out if you need help.
Love,
The Hillsboro Globe
