After seven hours of school, three hours of sports and activities, two hours of homework, and one hour of much needed free time, seniors are finding it hard to complete and cope with the college application process.

The beginning of senior year and the beginning of the college application process come hand-in-hand. Entering senior year, I expected easier classes with less of a workload and more time allotted to complete college applications.

What I got instead? The hardest class of my high school career, the same, if not more, involvement in school activities, and much less free time. So how are we supposed to complete the college application process in the two or three months that we have left?

“Organization is key,” said Mrs. Theresa Marshall, guidance counselor. “Keeping track of what you’re list of schools requires by checking out their websites, going onto Naviance, or calling the admissions office is really important.”

Seniors are also advised to make appointments with their guidance counselors, and keep in contact with them throughout the process.

Yet, this doesn’t help the fact that we simply do not have time to complete college applications.

“It would be nice if [teachers] tried to remember that on top of all the homework, we are trying to complete applications that determine the rest of our lives,” said Molly Caveney, senior. “So less homework would be nice, but time in class to work on applications shouldn’t be expected because we still have to learn the subject.”

Students find time to complete their applications over weekends, late in the evenings, and during late starts. Many use coping techniques to help relax them and get them through the process.

“I listen to music when I’m doing college apps, to relieve some stress,” said Emma Kroeger, senior. “I’m excited to get the process over with and be done…and go to college.”

Adding to this sentiment, other students try to find a zen or happy place.

“I pretend it’s not happening,” Caveney said. “But I have a list of everything I’ve done that makes me a good applicant, so when I’m freaking out I am reminded that I’ve worked hard.”

Teachers and counselors recommend reminders and lists to alleviate the stress.

“It’s really important for students to have some kind of spreadsheet or data put together on their schools, that states their admissions requirements,” Mrs. Marshall said. “What is that application deadline you’re trying to meet? Is it Nov. 1, Dec. 1, or maybe is it as early as Oct. 15?”

Resources are also provided to students who need some help or moral support. Updated admission information can be found on Naviance, which links you to other helpful resources that can help you find an interesting major, a school that fits your needs, and more

So teachers, please help us out and assign less homework. And seniors, as you try your hardest to complete your college applications on top of your heavy workload, remember that a year from now, everything will pay off.