By Alexis Diaz

College Already?

Stress and anxiety are two of the most common words seniors associate with when they hear “college applications” but for others it’s another opportunity for a new and exciting journey. The next four years of many seniors’ lives will be decided in a span of just 4 months. Seniors struggle with SATs, ACTs, personal statements, and kicking off the school year with stellar grades is a lot to handle not including jobs, sports, and other extracurricular activities many seniors juggle. The first few months of the school year are definitely the most difficult. Stress and anxiety? It’s not even a start to describe how seniors at Tustin High and all across America feel.

Since the start of freshman year, students look for new experiences and open minds ready to absorb the knowledge from their new and excited teachers. Senior year then creeps in and students stress about transitioning into the new year, and deal with tedious college applications. Fellow Tiller Twinkle Gupta explains, “I feel so scared and excited at the same time. It’s such a bittersweet feeling because I’m ready for change and transition. I’m always up for a challenge!”

However, other Tillers like Sierra Levesque and Amanda Nguyen are nervous but anxious to get started on the start of a new chapter. Tustin High School has many ambitious and determined students who expect nothing but positive outcomes from the college process. Senior Afif Achmad has an important goal: “I want to be a nurse because I believe the person I am would really help patients be comfortable and open.” He wants to attend the private school Azusa Pacific, Christian University located about an hour and a half from Tustin.

Under the pressure of multiple deadlines for rigorous economics projects and others try their best to keep school work and outside life in balance. Stress and anxiety are common among the hardworking seniors at Tustin High. Just a few more months and the next four years of their lives will be awaiting them after their bittersweet departure as a Tustin Tiller on June 18th, 2015.