Isla W., Teen Rep Communications Specialist & Newsletter Contributor
Dec 3, 2025
One of our teen writers opens up about college visits, early acceptances, and that moment when the future stops being hypothetical and starts feeling very, very real.
This fall has been crazy, and not just because of school. So far, I’ve been admitted to two of my top four colleges, something I’m excited about, proud of, and a little freaked out by. Over Fall Break, I visited two schools. I toured the campuses, met students, and explored the towns around them. Seeing everything up close was amazing, but I came home more nervous than when I left.
The trip made one thing clear: that I do have a top choice. But it also hit me how close all of this is. College isn’t some far-off idea anymore. It’s only a few months away.
I’ve been lucky. My parents have supported me while I was studying at Harvard and Cornell, when I traveled to Japan (without them), and when I told them I wanted to volunteer at a wildlife sanctuary (and hey, can they drive me 70 miles round trip each shift?). They support every interest I have and their belief in me is the reason I’ve made it this far.
But now I’m finishing up my last round of applications, and with each one I submit, reality sinks in a little more. Soon I’ll be the one creating my own opportunities. It’s exciting. It’s terrifying. This time next year, I could still be in Florida… or in New York, or Colorado, or California… or even Scotland. The possibilities feel huge and very real.
I write this because every one of us will hit a moment where the future suddenly feels real. It’s scary, but it’s also the start of something huge and exciting.
About the Author:
Isla is a high school student at a local art school, a lifetime Mensan and Mensa Honor Society member, and serves as both our Communications Specialist and Newsletter Contributor. With a passion for zoology and a love of science, she’s preparing for college and aiming high—her sights are set on UC Davis or the University of Glasgow. Click here to learn more about Isla!