The time is finally approaching. After for years of blood, sweat, and tears- okay maybe not blood- we can finally say, "we made it!"

For four years, there was always the pressure of needing to succeed. We had to push forward no matter what, and now all our hard work is coming to an end- until college of course. Although this is a very happy occasion, I can't help but panic- just a little.

With college applications and financial aid, it's difficult not to get overwhelmed. For the average student, meeting the criteria can be mind-boggling. It's almost as if you don't have a 4.0GPA or a million after school activities, you have nothing to offer.

Whether you're the first person in your family to go to college or the fiftieth, the process of deciding what college is right for you is terrifying. The idea that you're reaching adulthood is already scary enough without adding the stress of what you want to do with the rest of your life.

It seems like going out of high school, you're supposed to have your entire life plan. Undecided is not recommended, and if you have no idea- well, you better figure it out quick. Going from high school to college is stressful already, and adding financial aid/loans on top of it can leave your mind reeling.

While trying to figure out what to do with the rest of your life is already hard enough, you go through a major change in your life. You lose friends who you thought you would talk to forever, and explore new interests you'd never to think to try. While in some ways I'm ready for this change in pace, I can't help but feel wary when it comes to breaking the 12-year cycle of education that I've always been a part of.

Whether I'm ready or not, I know the end of one of the longest chapters of my life is finally closing. This moment that I've been expecting with both excitement and dread in my heart is only months away. Although it's hard to let go of somethings, I know my future is bright.

Here's to the class of 2017 and the few moments we have left together. Let's make them count!