4 Important Ways to Reduce Stress During the College Process

The college search and application process can be stressful to students and families. Despite everyone’s best efforts to keep a clear head and calm demeanor, the fact of the matter is that it’s a process with many questions, tasks and responsibilities. In this blog post, we outline four ways students can possibly reduce stress while searching for and applying to colleges.

1. Start early. Students who start the college process early can mitigate the added stress of last-minute-tasks. Sometimes the college process seems so intimidating that no one knows where to start and the whole thing gets put off. Don’t let this happen to you. There is such thing as too early, however. Mid-way through junior year is a great time to start.
2. Break down tasks into steps. The whole process seems much less intimidating when it’s perceived as a bunch of small hills rather than a huge mountain. Tackle first things first and put off tasks that can be done later. Your Campus Bound counselor can help you stay on track and let you know which things are more timely and help you stay on target.
3. Keep an open mind. Imagining that there is only one perfect college out there for you can cause unnecessary stress to find “it”. And if you’re searching for the one, you might apply to too many schools in an effort to not eliminate the wrong one. This will over extend yourself and cause undue stress. A reminder to also keep an open mind when your mom’s friend’s aunt Linda’s husband tells you that XYZ college “isn’t any good.” More on that in this previous blog. Make your own opinions, trust your gut and know that there are many great colleges for you out there.
4. Maintain your normal healthy lifestyle. It’s important to eat, sleep, stay on top of school work, see friends and family, and stay involved in your extra-curricular activities. Don’t let the college process be your entire focus, nor the only thing you talk about. Keep perspective and know that it all works out the way it’s supposed to.

How do you mitigate and manage stress during the college search and application process? If you are struggling with this, call Campus Bound! We can help!