COVID-19 has drastically changed the education system in the United States, specifically the college admission process.
For seniors, college visits are one of the most important parts of the admissions process. These gave students the chance to tour campuses and to learn about specific programs, scholarships and student life.
However, due to the outbreak of COVID-19, universities have ceased conducting in person campus visits. As a result, many students are deprived of the opportunity to find the best college for themselves.
This means students have additional stress about what colleges expect of them this year. Senior Allison Suen is navigating a new hybrid learning model and playing two instruments, all while finishing her application-not knowing how she will be evaluated. She said, “There is a lot more uncertainty and self-doubt this year because a lot of schools are going standardized test optional so we have to make the hard decision of whether we want to submit them.”
Suen is not the only senior who is dissatisfied with all the changes. Senior Ahmed Baig is also disappointed with what his college experience could be like.“With everything being virtual this year, it makes it really hard to get excited for college. Now, it is more of seeing teachers through a screen and the student to student relationship that makes college so special,” he claimed.
However, for many students, the idea of a gap year also poses an interesting dilemma: fall behind their peers or otherwise attend in person or online while paying full tuition while missing out on the anticipated freshmen experience.
A striking 17% of students have changed their post-high school plans due to COVID-19. Many have begun to consider the possibility of taking a gap year or attending local community colleges to avoid paying full tuition at expensive universities.
Pleasant Valley counselors are also faced with an influx of students coming for help with their college applications. Counselor Leslie Spiller advised, “I think the best way to reduce stress in this time is to first, be kind to yourself. This is a challenging and difficult time that has changed how our whole world is operating, so it is important to understand that it is okay to be discouraged, stressed, and annoyed at the changes and restrictions.”
Regardless of the significant changes in the college admission process, students hope to adapt and make the best out of their situation.
