As I write this, I have just submitted the last of my early applications, one day before the usual November 1^st deadline. I submitted my first one almost two weeks ago, and it was surreal – especially when I consider all the campus tours, information sessions, counselor meetings, and essay writing that went into it. As great as it may feel to finish applications, it’s common knowledge that they can bring a fair amount of stress. What I’ve realized over the past months is that it’s easy to lose sight of the end goal in this process: finding the best “fit.”

There is a rather simple rationale for why many students simply want to attend the most highly reputed college possible. The United States’ place in the world is evolving; we see political struggles, fiscal crises, and changing diplomatic relations. How can we be sure of success in today’s über-competitive society?  In response, many students and parents seem to take on an “assembly-line” mentality; they march through high school collecting as many accolades and leadership positions as possible, hoping these accomplishments will give them that final boost into the Ivy League.

Is this mentality the best one? A tragedy of many a high school career is simply spreading oneself too thin. Eventually, taking on too heavy a workload is detrimental to success. What happened to following your passion? We have the resources to do so here at the Academy. We are strong in diverse areas: arts, student government, or even journalism!

If students heed the advice of the college office, however, this issue should be avoided altogether. One Newark Academy pamphlet advises students on “finding themselves in the college process.” At first, this may seem like advertising for our very capable counselors, but it honestly has been a major positive of the experience for me. It may not seem it, but the process is one of passion, not just academic and extracurricular muscle. Applying to college forces you to reflect on what you have done through high school: what it is you are passionate about and why you are passionate about it. It’s not only about taking hard classes or engaging in a myriad of activities.  The really important questions are why you took a certain class, or why you were a member of that particular club.

These are questions that many of us do not consider before we are seniors. College applications can be a pain, but they have required a new level of self-awareness on my behalf. It can be excruciating to fit your activities into 100 character boxes, or to fit your whole personality into 650 words, but the introspection this requires is a valuable tool for anyone. We do not start applying until twelfth grade, but finding a deeper purpose begins much earlier. I urge you to live in the moment and get involved in the community – in ways you truly enjoy. This course of action is best not only for your college applications, but also for your mental health. In this spirit, the Editorial Board of The Minuteman encourages you to take some time for yourself, browse this edition, and most importantly, pursue what you truly love.