<p>I used to be one of those college obsessed students. The ones that are so interested in going to a high-ranked school, they would rather have an awful four year education in order to get into such an institution. I used to worry about the SATs as a freshman. I used to think about what others would say, or even worse what they wouldn't say, if I didn't go to a top 20 school.</p>
<p>Thankfully, I have changed. I realize now that while I will still continue to work hard, getting into a top ranked college isn't really what I need. I've been thinking about some smaller schools, like Colorado College and Middlebury, which are both awesome academically, while not maintaining that Ivy mold. Not being obsessed with the college process has let me see everything I was missing in my earlier years. There were parties to go to, trails to ski, teams to play on, and clubs to join: all of which I found hugely more enjoyable when I knew I wasn't doing it JUST for my college application. I now have two years of high school left, and I'm excited at the prospects of the future. How cool is it that I get to pick a school, one which totally excites me, one where I want to spend my next four years, and present myself fully to it? And if they reject me, I'll be upset. If they tell me I can't go, I'll surely be sad. But I'll move on, I'll find somewhere who wants me for who I am, and I'll go enjoy four years. </p>
<p>Sure, I'll still freak out over trivial things, like the PSATs and applications. But, really, when you look at the process as a whole, its often more intriguing and exciting than it comes off...</p>
<p>GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE. Go to an Ivy if its the school to you, go to a community college if you want, but whatever you do, love it.</p>