The school year of 2022 is quickly coming to an end, especially for the seniors of the world. It’s January and at this point most college applications are closed with many soon-to-be graduates already knowing where they plan to attend. On the other hand, there are those still waiting to hear from their schools of choice or deciding between different colleges. Nonetheless, it’s a stressful time for everyone, as the most important events of their lives, so far, are around the corner. Seniors are coming to the realization that they are about to start their lives, whether or not it be out of state, in state, or even in the same city. College decisions can be very difficult as they will dictate where many will be for the next four years or more. It’s a learning experience for many who will start to do everything on their own, a start toward further growth, and the advent of new, exciting experiences.

Senior Ivana Major is still waiting to hear back from some schools.

“My top options are FSU, Alabama State and UF,” she said.

Major explains all these schools provide amazing resources for her future, and how it’s been a struggle after being accepted into Alabama State, because things are changing very quickly.

“My conflict really comes from realizing where I belong and being scared of what’s coming next. This is not a choice I plan on deciding on soon and whatever happens is what is meant to be,” she reflected.

Many students of the graduating class are facing the same problems. Making a descions can be scary because it is life changing and is coming up very quickly. Some are set on one school for very long but once it comes time to make a decision, it’s harder than they would have thought. Major has a great attitude about it, believing in the end, everything will fall into place.

Senior Helena Marquina, has already decided where she is going to be attend. After playing volleyball for all of high school, she received the opportunity to join Loyola University Maryland.

“I decided to go there for volleyball, the location, the academics, and the campus,” she explained.

When making such a big decision it’s important to consider all the facts. Though Marquina had opportunities to go elsewhere, she decided that Loyola was the place for her, all things considered. Many athletes have been fortunate to receive opportunities like these, but still there are some who are waiting to hear back.

Monica Marino (“Nikita”) is just as conflicted as Major. Marino is waiting to hear back from Florida schools, since they haven’t sent out their letters.

“I want to stay in state, but not in Miami. That way I can experience something new, but still be close to my family,”  Marino said.

In the meantime, she’s waiting to hear back from UF and UM, though for Marino UM is more of a last resort. She also says she got in to Penn State but is not sure if she is ready to make that commitment.

The class of 2022 are in this together as they face the new changes coming their way very soon.