As the year comes to an end, Olympia’s class of 2026 has officially taken on the college application and decision process. This time of year causes lots of mixed emotions and feelings. Recently, students have begun receiving a few or all of their entrance decisions from colleges they have applied to. “I don’t like to have my hopes up, so I’m not building any expectations, and I’m mentally preparing myself for rejections,” senior Marcelo Grativol stated. Like Grativol, many seniors alike are experiencing a lot of anxiety and anticipation about their long-awaited decisions. Students deal with the struggle of keeping all that excitement contained. There is building anxiety as frantic thoughts about what-ifs take over their mind while the decisions are being released.
Although many students have a dream school, reality might get in the way of that. “I have received some acceptances, but I’m waiting for the University of Florida which has been my dream school since I was a kid,” senior Thomas Tepes claimed. Setting a course on one specific school can both cause a lot of stress and push for more determination. With this goal in mind, it is also important to have a back up plan. “If I do not get in directly, my friends and I plan to attend Santa Fe for two years and then transfer to the University of Florida,” Tepes explained. It’s vital that seniors keep in check with their emotions and consider their back up plans if their original one does not come through.
Many students have received most of their decisions already as December is coming to an end. With this in mind, it is important for them to consider more than just what school they want to attend. “I have applied for financial aid and housing applications for possible school options,” senior Sahil Samaroo expressed. On-campus housing can fill up quickly, and financial aid can be very limited. Students must consider this when choosing their school and then plan accordingly to have everything in place on time.
With all of this in mind, Olympia High School has an outstanding College and Career Resource Center that assists students with any difficulties or questions they may have. Mrs. Donna Benefiel and the rest of the amazing CCRC staff are there to guide you through the process of college applications, decision making, and scholarships. There is a lot of information and advice about stepping into a new environment as well as managing tons of emotions. Our class of 2026 has shared some advice for upcoming seniors getting ready to go through the same process next year. “Keep up with your Common App and make sure you meet every deadline so that later on you will have choices and get to pick what school is best for you,” Samaroo advised. “Dont forget to have a back up plan and know that whatever choice you make will be perfect for you,” Tepes recommended.
As our seniors prepare to take another decisive step into their future, there is no doubt that the skills Olympia’s staff and faculty have nurtured in them will set them up for success beyond our school.
