College. Seven letters that are heaven and hell to a high school senior’s ears.

College. The unknown step to a high school senior’s life.

Some people say that senior year is the easiest year of all the years in high school. Those people clearly did not have the struggle of picking a college, a major, or senioritis.

They were probably the people who stayed on top of every timeline with everything.

As I am not one of those people, here is a list of things that I would recommend as a checklist to every incoming high school senior.

1. Write your general essay at the end of junior year, and have teachers edit it and work on it over the summer.

Your essay is not very long, but it has to grab the reader’s attention and make them read on. Out of all the students applying, make yours stand out.

2. Fill out the common app.

This is an application the can be used as a base application to send out to the schools who use it. It can normally be accessed August 1st, and most schools on there will be free to apply to for a couple months. Get it in before it costs money.

3. Ask early for recommendations.

This means maintain a good relationship with teachers and counselors. Ask politely and give them time to fill paperwork out.

4. Narrow down your college choices and go visit.

Visit all the colleges you’re looking at, and it will help you see if the environment and campus is right for you.

5. Retake the SAT or ACT if you plan on it.

Colleges want SAT scores sooner rather than later. Plus you don't want that stress carrying late into your senior year. Get it taken, and if you don't like your score, retake it before it is too late. Better sooner rather than later.

6. File FAFSA on time.

FAFSA is a financial aid form that goes to the government and to schools to help displace the cost for attending college.

7. Apply for scholarships.

Apply to as many as you can regardless of what they are about. From as silly as building a fort or as serious as why your passion is the your future career, every bit helps.

8. Maintain your GPA.

Many students decide to slack off and just don’t have the motivation to try their hardest, but senior year can hurt your GPA.

10. Get ready for the cost of dorm room supplies, and learn to share.

If you have siblings, start learning to share. This can make you a good roommate and help you get along with new people. Also, dorm room supplies can have a cost with them, so make a list and spread the cost out through the year. Also, buy items when they’re on sale instead of when everyone is back to school shopping at the end of summer.

9. Make your choice and stock up on school wear!!!!

Get pumped for college, and get all the school clothing you can!!!

College is a new and exciting season of life. If you end up hating your college, you can transfer. You’re not stuck there forever. Also, don't forget about all your high school memories and friends. High school wasn’t just a boring time filled with nerds and homework. High school was a launching pad for college, so be grateful for those teachers who were willing to stay after hours and help you.