The fall of senior year is an exciting time: it’s the last year of high school, the first year of independence. But before you can enjoy the change, there’s the college selection process. For most people, the process is one of the most stressful, anxiety-ridden times in their lives; some kids claim it to be the first time they have ever dealt with real stress. The process is nail biting; it determines not only where you will go to college but how your life will change. I went into the college process not totally ignorant but also not totally ready. I think there are definitely some things you should know beforehand. I’m not talking about going on college tours or even scheduling interviews; that’s information any college counselor will give you. I think all kids need some mental preparation before sending off their applications and crossing their fingers. You need to have a good philosophy.