The current seniors of Cornerstone are caught in the process of preparing for their EA or ED. ED and EA are abbreviations for “Early Decision” and “Early Action.” It is the middle of the Fall semester, which means that seniors should be busy with their first-ever ED and EA of their lives. Application plans such as ED and EA boost students’ possibilities to get into their dream schools as it shows their strong interest in the particular school they’re applying to. ED and EA are a harsh burden for the seniors because the deadline is November, earlier than the deadline for regular application. 9th, 10th and 11th graders typically have zero opportunity to see what seniors are doing nowadays. So here is an interview on four seniors on how they are doing these days:
Q: I assume you are in the process of your ED or EA. What do you feel about it? Is it tough, overwhelming or etc.?
Ryan: Of course I do feel it is tough and overwhelming, but I try to perceive this as a chance for me to take a look back at my life and prepare for the future ahead, which is a valuable experience. It’s always part of the process, gotta enjoy it or I shall perish.
Tyler: I feel overwhelmed because I have to prepare for a lot of things to do.
Ella: I am planning to apply only for EA. I feel really nervous and I can’t believe that I have to go to college next year. It’s too overwhelming to handle everything.
Brian: I feel like buying a lottery ticket. It is because I don’t know if I will get in or not, so I am worried but feel like buying lottery tickets.
Q: What do you recommend to future seniors? ED? EA? Or none of them?
Ryan: I believe shooting your shot for ED / EA is a great chance for you to keep you on the deadline and make you actually work, because having a goal or deadline manipulates your behavior. Also, if you have a school that you deem “fit” to you, why not? I don’t know, shoot for the stars.
Tyler: Depends on your preparation and the schools that you apply to. If you feel pressure, then go for regular!
Ella: I recommend EA because I can get one more opportunity.
Brian: I would recommend both. It is because both have a higher percentage to get an acceptance.
Q: Final words of advice for our future seniors?
Ryan: I think this process of college admission really diminishes who you really are. Seeing all the crazy stats, awards, and ECs on YouTube and friends near you, it really feels like you’re not good enough. I am feeling that too. But note that your story is still unique by all means. The path you have trailed through has only been taken by you. Also, note that what your friends or YouTube or maybe sometimes teachers say may not really be a “key” or an “answer” to college admissions. So stick with your perspective if you have a firm belief in it!
Tyler: Do what you want to do but keep doing what you must do.
Ella: Please write the essay in advance. It will be more comfortable and productive for you.
Brian: Don’t put safety or medium schools in your ED. ED is for you to get into competitive colleges.
