Executive Function Tips for Tackling College Applications
Creating college lists, researching potential majors, and managing application deadlines are just a few of the tasks involved in the college application process. If you are a neurodivergent student, have ADHD, or are someone who struggles with time management and organization, taking on the numerous elements of applying to college can become overwhelming. In this challenge lies opportunity, however. There’s no better time to learn new skills that will not only help you get through your applications, but will also make you a more prepared, college-ready student. Here are a few tips, strategies, and tools that our college consultants have found useful in helping students complete their applications with more ease and confidence.
Feeling Overwhelmed is Natural
First and foremost, you must realize that it’s completely normal to feel stressed or anxious about the college application process. You’ve got a lot on your plate–homework, activities, family responsibilities–and now you’ve got to prep for an SAT and write a personal statement. It adds up and is a lot. You’re not alone. Even those kids who look like they’re breezing through it all are likely feeling some angst about it as well. So don’t beat yourself up or compare yourself to others. Instead, remember all the difficult tasks and projects you have completed and remind yourself you can do this, too.
Clarify Your “Why” to Stay Motivated
It’s easy to procrastinate and distract ourselves, especially if we are not particularly connected to the outcome or the reasons we’re doing the work in the first place. Having a purpose, on the other hand, helps us focus and prioritize. So take some time to reflect on why this process is important to you. What is waiting on the other side? Why do you want to apply to and attend college? It might even be helpful to jot down some words or sentences about why it’s meaningful for you so they can serve as an anchor and a reminder at times you find yourself struggling to move forward.
Schedule Time for College App Tasks
Time management is typically the trickiest part of the application process for most students. With so many classes and activities pulling them in all directions, college applications become something to fit in when the opportunity arises. The problem is those opportunities may not arise and before you know it, deadlines are bearing down on you.
The best strategy is to start with your deadlines and work backwards. Make a list of what needs to be done and do your best to realistically estimate how much time will be needed to accomplish those tasks. It’s likely going to take more time than you imagine. Then schedule time for working on your college applications–actually put it on your calendar. Where does it fit into your schedule so you can devote some time to it without feeling too much pressure? Some students set aside time on weekends, during study hall periods at school, or any day of the week that might be a little lighter. You want to be flexible, of course, but scheduling your time will help you keep moving toward your goals without the work piling up.
Find a System/App That Works For You
There are many great tools available for planning and organizing, but it’s important to find the system that best supports you and the way you function and learn. Some students love spreadsheets, while others prefer making lists in Google Docs or keeping a planner or journal. If you are typically disorganized and tend to lose track of appointments and deadlines, it’s not going to work to wing it. It’s also not going to work to use a system or app that you don’t enjoy or at least, resonate with. So we advise that you try out several different options, using each for a week or so, to find the one you feel most comfortable using.
Here are a few apps, many of which were designed to help those with ADHD, that offer a variety of ways to track and prioritize large projects, such as your college applications:
Use the Pomodoro Technique to Beat Procrastination
Sometimes, the hardest part is getting started; writing your personal statement essay, for example, can feel like such a daunting task that it’s easier to procrastinate than to begin. The Pomodoro Technique, which you can learn more about here, is a time management strategy that helps you gain focus and flow by working on a big task in smaller segments, called Pomodoros. You can decide how long each Pomodoro will be, but they are typically around 25 minutes. Here’s an example of how you might use it for writing your essay:
Set a timer for one Pomodoro, or 25 minutes (you can use your phone or one of the many apps designed for the Pomodoro technique, such as Focus Keeper.)
Work on your essay until the timer goes off. Remove all distractions before starting.
When the timer rings, take a 5 minute break.
You can then decide if you want to keep working for another Pomodoro. It is typically recommended to do 4 Pomodoros, alternating between the Pomodoro and 5 minute breaks, but be flexible with yourself. The ultimate goal is to get into a rhythm and flow.
After your last Pomodoro, take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes.
Hopefully, by committing to these short periods of distraction-free work, you’ll find it easier to start and complete your tasks. You can do anything for 25 minutes!
Take Intentional Breaks
Regardless of how organized you are, there are bound to be times when the stress and anxiety ramp up to uncomfortable levels. The best thing you can do is to remove yourself from the stressful situation or environment and take at least five to 10 minutes of quiet time. Physiologically, when we are stressed, our body can move into the “fight or flight” response, making it impossible to focus and concentrate. In contrast, we can soothe ourselves by taking time to “rest and digest.” That doesn’t mean looking at your phone or watching a show; it means truly getting still and resting. Think about going outdoors if you can or finding a quiet corner in your house where you can take some long, deep breaths and allow your body and mind to rest and recover. You will be much more productive in the long run.
Ask for Help
Admittedly, it’s not always easy, but asking for help is one of the wisest and most courageous things you can do for yourself. There are peers, teachers, parents, coaches, mentors, and educational consultants who have the wisdom and expertise to ease your stress and help you get those college applications completed on time. Make a habit of checking in with yourself and your stress levels, because it’s common to be unaware of your own needs. Ask yourself, “What do I need help with and who could help me with this?” Then remind yourself it’s okay to ask for help and reach out to a trusted friend or adult. You don’t have to do it on your own.
If you would like to know more about how our JRA educational consultants can assist you with the college application process, please contact us.
