November 1st, my first application deadline, comes closer and closer, and college has become much more of a reality in my not too distant future.

The calendar date is constantly staring at me, but it seems much less daunting than I thought. I feel more at peace with myself than ever.

I have spent my last three years of high school with college in the back of my mind, always worrying whether this test will effect what schools I get into, stressing about what classes would impress schools or trying to find more impressive extracurriculars.

Worrying about college never helped me when I was an underclassmen. I found myself constantly anxious about my future, when I should’ve been enjoying my last few years of adolescence. I could’ve ended those sleepless nights thinking about what schools will reject me and how I wouldn’t be good enough for any school I want to go to.

I could’ve eliminated so much stress from my high school career and focused on enjoying time with my friends, who I’ll soon be separated from.

But when I first started my college applications, I realized that I was in a much more relaxed state of mind than I had been every other year.

College is a reality, but I have finally stopped stressing out about it and realized that I will get everything done, and I will get in somewhere I like. I’m excited to think about my future, and the changes that will come with it. It’s a scary thought, but one that I’m excited to conquer.

College is not something you should start consuming your life with as a sophomore. Enjoy high school, take time to have fun with your friends, get to know your classmates.

When the time comes to start the college process, let it be something exciting and not stressful. Think about all the opportunities you’re going to have, not what schools you think you’ll be rejected from.

In the middle of my 12 applications I have felt less stressed than at any other moment in high school. Applying to college is exciting; it shouldn’t be greeted by stress and anxiety.