STUDENT OUTLOOK -- Gracie R. Kazer

As the year continues to draw to an end, we all look forward to the

enjoyable extras brought on by the holiday season. These pleasures will

be even more appreciated this year after the horrific world events that

have occurred in the past few months.

However, there is a group that must maintain a clear view of

priorities and responsibilities throughout this time known for

celebration. The members of this group are the entire graduating class of

2002; it just so happens that parallel to the holiday season is the most

demanding phase of the college application process.

Reflecting upon college at this time is both exciting and extremely

nerve-racking for those involved. Fantasizing about how their new lives

will bring them freedom and maturity causes the entire subject to be

long-awaited and thrilling.

However, the most dangerous question to ask most high school seniors

in mid-November is: “Where are you going to college?” While few might

already have their plans set in stone, the vast majority of this group

not only has been asked this question at least 10,000 times, but is now

struggling with their own reservations and insecurities. Whether it is

based on the possibility of rejection or other questions concerning the

future, this awkward state of mind has afflicted everyone who has ever

been and ever will be in the position of such great change.

Among the most intimidating elements of applying to college is the

unbelievably high level of competitiveness students face. The statistics

of college applicants have never been greater, and because colleges have

room for only so many, the bar is higher for every individual. Other than

the typical responsibility of maintaining a decent grade-point average,

there are always the standardized test scores and personal statements to

worry about. Then there is the task of completing letters of

recommendation from teachers or counselors, and setting up possible

interviews. Aside from all of these factors, prospective college students

are also faced with the challenge of creating a diverse resume and

appearing “well-rounded” to admission officers. To help meet the

necessary number of acceptances, colleges have begun to look more closely

at community service, work experience, personal qualities, minority

status and various extracurricular activities.

In addition to the competition, the usual strain of completing tedious

applications and remembering specific deadlines are both evident and

crucial to an applicant’s success.

Senior year is two major things: It is the end of a familiar routine

that shapes people into who they are, and it is the beginning of an

infinite number of experiences that will cause them to grow and change. A

combination of mixed feelings and lack of desire to work can often spoil

something this great, but if individuals can carry themselves through a

few months of unpleasant labor, they will be sure to benefit in the end.

Ironically, the application process is somewhat unifying in the way that

it brings the senior class together in its struggles and its victories.

Good luck, and enjoy this season for not only the holidays that it

brings, but the memories it creates as well.

* GRACIE R. KAZER is a Corona del Mar High School senior whose columns

will appear on an occasional basis in the Community Forum section.