The Guinea Pig: Navigating The College Application Process

I was the older child, the first in my immediate family to grow up in the Bay Area. My sister has it a little easier than I do, having my experiences to talk about. But I’ve always felt that there are some things I wish I had known before I started high school, things I could have done differently. 

So in the words of the guinea pig who wishes she had known more, I offer up advice to all incoming or current high schoolers. 

Dear high schooler,

Welcome. High school is going to be different. You’ll have a lot of work to do, a lot of new people to meet, a lot of identity crises to navigate. But that’s high school, and that’s being a teenager. 

Try everything. Whether it’s a business club that you’re sure you won’t be interested in, or choir with the 10 years of experience you have, make sure you put yourself out there to learn as much as possible.

When you’re in your classes, don’t focus on your grades. Focus on the knowledge that you’re gaining, and the grades will automatically follow. Use every day as an opportunity to learn something new. Even if you don’t think you’ll apply it in life, you never know. Give every subject and every class a fair chance to occupy your mind. Learn everything that you didn’t know before.

Get to know your teachers. They’re all really interesting people, and most likely, their passion for their subject will flow through to you as well. Ask them why they do what they do, and learn as much as you can. 

Ask questions, even if you feel stupid. Trust me, no one will remember in a few days, or even a few hours. Ask your teachers all the questions that you don’t understand, so they can explain it to you. Remember, if you have a question, most likely someone else in the class has that same question too. 

Finally, through this whole stressful journey, don’t forget to focus on the meaningful things. Work on being a good person, and a good friend. Make sure you remember to focus on your mental health. Don’t get caught up in the race of college admissions; make choices that are healthy for you. Take the classes that interest you, and put your heart and soul into everything you do. 

And most important: when you leave high school, make sure that you’ve grown into a person that you’re proud of. 

Signed,

Nikhita Karra