Academy Seniors Tackling One Application at a Time

As every senior knows, the application process for college is rigorous. With hundreds of schools to choose from, it can be very difficult to narrow down what college or university is the best possible fit. 

For some, the summer before senior year was used to get a head start on this process.

“It was much easier than I thought it was going to be. Since I had enough time to prepare over the summer, when the time came to apply, it didn’t take me long at all,” said Jordan McDede (‘23).

Luckily for Academy seniors, Florida has some of the best universities in the country so there is not as much of a struggle trying to find a home if the plan is to stay in state. Florida Prepaid and Bright Futures help with financial aid if needed. 

The University of Florida is ranked one of America’s five best public universities and has one of the best Engineering programs. Florida State University is ranked among America’s top 20 public universities and has a great honors program. The University of Central Florida is one of the top 20 most innovative universities in America and has 220+ degrees to choose from. The universities above are the bigger public schools in Florida, but there are many others that are also highly ranked in the U.S. with reputable academic programs.

If not interested in staying in state, multiple seniors have succeeded while being in a completely new state and environment. Academy students have gone out of state to schools such as the University of Georgia, University of Alabama, and the University of Tennessee to pursue a career.

However, having all of these amazing options does not make it any easier. Not only is taking the SAT and/or ACT a major stress factor, but the tests are also a huge deciding factor in where one may end up for college. Choosing a college is a major part of one’s future and it can be extremely scary knowing that a life changing decision is put in the hands of a 17 or 18 year old. It is a ton of pressure wondering if the right choice was made or if another school would have been a better fit. 

Thankfully, AHN gives students many resources to help take some of the weight off of their shoulders. With multiple counselors and caring teachers, applying to colleges does not seem so scary. 

“My academic counselor has helped me by narrowing down certain types of schools that will suit me and my goals for the future as well as advising me which way to apply to which schools and how to go about the process,” said Lauren Wehling (‘23).

At the end of the day, wherever our seniors end up, they have proven that the Academy sets them up for a bright future no matter what college they go to.