My desk is scattered with books, folders, and papers, but not all of them are for high school classes. With college brochures peeking through the clutter, I realize just how overwhelmed I am. Not only do I have to write an essay for my English class, but I have to write two more for my college applications. I also have to finish my statistics homework, read an article for psychology, and put together a pitch for Entrepreneurial Studies while simultaneously completing my FAFSA. Help!

The fall semester of senior year in high school is beyond stressful. Not only are many students worried about doing well in their classes, but they are looking to the future by trying to choose a college. With applications due at various different dates and an abundance of school work, it can be easy to become overwhelmed.

Procrastinating is not an option, but it still seems like there are not enough hours in the day to get everything done. Even my weekends are consumed with work, and I can’t seem to find time to take a step back and breathe.

I also know that I am not the only student feeling overextended. I often hear other seniors complaining to one another about all of the things they have to get done and all of the rapidly approaching deadlines. Throw in extra-curricular activities such as playing sports, participating in the play, or holding a job, and you can almost see students’ heads spinning.

Because of this, seniors should get a week in the fall semester where teachers are not allowed to assign homework. By providing a short period of time where students don’t have to worry about homework on top of applications, students would be able to get ahead in the college process. Students could utilize this time to work on college essays, scholarship applications, and other time-sensitive college necessities that need to get done.

According to The New York Times, the college admission process can cause significant struggles for students including “lack of sleep, stomach pain and headaches, but doctors and educators also worry that stress tied to academic achievement can lead to depression, eating disorders and other mental health problems.” Because of this, “some high schools are trying to improve the process by easing up on the workload of seniors who are filling out college applications.”

If JC followed suit, students may find themselves less stressed and better able to complete everything required on time.

Taylor Bynion is the Copy Chief for The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.