Dearest Gentle Reader,

Consider yourself alerted, for by the time this column has lent itself to your eyes, many senior scholars will have submitted their applications for the premiere round of university decisions – you may recognize them as “Early Decision” or “Early Action.” Apart from the demographic of students who have elected for athletic recruitment, the release of the aforementioned round of decisions is the first opportunity for the class of 2027 to be privy to their future academic pathways. Indeed, in a mere few weeks, some of our ton will have decided on their ensuing place of study.

While this is all very exhilarating indeed, might I hold space for the utmost unease that many are feeling during this era of suspense. Amidst the transient window in which our eldest students apply to colleges, the stress emanates through the air; it can be all but tasted on one’s tongue. And with fair reason, dear reader, for it seems that everything one does makes an impact on one’s collegiate outcome.

Primarily, colleges consider academic performance in the highest regard. This element of one’s application is particularly taxing, for many seniors are taking the most rigorous course load of their entire high school career, and they must balance it with the time required for writing said declarations of interest to colleges.

Beyond that, our eldest scholars have inherited a multitude of leadership positions that call for their attention. These extracurricular commitments are accompanied by athletic endeavors that are both physically draining and time-consuming. A number of scholars also consign hours on financial pursuits and good works.

Bless me, dear reader, for to obtain a momentary rest during this period is a near impossibility. Even one’s luncheon hour is preoccupied by informative assemblies with visiting college representatives — a time in which many feel pressured to present themselves in a rather professional manner.

Pray do tell, how in Nature’s spinning sphere does one balance it all? Between academic achievement, athletic exertion, the leading of organizational societies, civic engagement, employment, allotments for social pursuits and adequate slumber, this author can only imagine the undertaking to be like spilling the history of our academy’s happenings in a single tea time — oh, the thought of it!

I sometimes feel the expectation of attending a renowned university is so thickly ingrained in our veins that the strain of fulfilling said prophecy raises our very blood pressure.

While I can hold appreciation for the lofty goals that students set for themselves, this author feels some may be attempting to secure a retirement plan before even receiving their high school diploma! Scholars at our ton have such a wide variety of proficiencies and passions that are discarded whilst allocating one’s time in completing a Resume of Incomparable Excellence (or RIE, as this author has coined it).

I should be rather astonished and pleased to catch word of an individual straying from the trodden path — one who fears not the pressures of society and instead follows after their own heart. Would one’s six-figure destiny truly be unachievable should they elect to reside on a Scottish farm for a year, living in harmony with the sheep and relying on the nourishment of raw milk and potatoes? Or, perhaps an excursion through the mountainous wonders of Patagonia, with nothing save for the basic commodities that fit on one’s back?

Honestly, dear reader, have we ever allowed ourselves to consider the extent to which we can utilize our free will to construct greater happiness?

As the Early Decision application window draws to a close, this author does encourage seniors to reflect on what will truly bring them joy. For while this intense time may feel vital for paving the path to success, you still have your entire adult life ahead of you.

Consider the following — and to be frank, I should address this pondering to all readers, students of every grade and faculty alike — when you are elderly and frail, reclined in your rocker beside your loving partner or loyal hound, will you be satisfied?

Let this letter serve as a gentle reminder to check in with your heart and make sure it is in harmony with your resolute head.

And for the senior class, as you prepare your schedules for your springtime excursion, or SSP, as it is commonly acknowledged, I do hope you’ll bear in mind the following: tempting as it may be to rest — and rest you absolutely should after this final push — be sure to make good on such a unique opportunity. Challenge yourself in ways you weren’t able to prior; for fortune awaits those who are bold enough to seek her.

But alas, I digress. It seems I’m sharing my piece on matters far beyond this sphere of time. Thus, until next time, Gentle Reader.

Sincerely,
Lady Knightingale