|
"Congratulations! You did it!"
Surrounded by friends and teachers, a senior student pressed the 'submit' button to send off their college application, and along with that click came cheers so loud they rang through the hallway. In SAP, we make it a tradition to recognize each student’s college application submission—not just for all the effort they put into it, but as a reminder of the journey they've been on and the new step they’re taking toward the future.
October marks the start of the 2025 application cycle. As college counselors, we feel a renewed sense of excitement with each new season. What unique testimonies will be shared? What will students discover through their reflection? How will the process lead our students to grow? We share this excitement because we know that the applications students write go far beyond just filling in the forms; they’re a reflection of their life’s blessings and a time of discovering their path forward.
Each section of the application is utilized to push our students to realize and express different parts of who they are:
-
The ‘activities’ section showcases the talents they use to serve and influence their community.
-
The ‘honors’ section highlights their challenges and the results of their training.
-
The ‘why major’ essay is a starting point in finding G’s vision for them.
-
The ‘why us’ essay is a resolution of how they will live in college as student missionaries.
-
Their personal statement is a powerful testimony of their life.
It’s a blessing to witness their growth and guide them through these important steps. Written below is one example of that growth through a ‘why us’ essay from our current seniors.
My life is 3 hours and 49 minutes longer than average teenagers. Why? I don’t have a smart phone. But I gain more than just time.
There is a famous advertisement in Korea with the phrase “Follow your heart.” Though my friends may not remember it, it made me think: Maybe this idea started the YOLO movement, the culture of blind acceptance, etc.”
Without a smartphone, I read books and the Book, formed my standard of what was right in His eyes and now see things through His standard. I’m ready to help the *** community discern what His will is.
The application cycle continues on to next March, and until then college counselors will again and again help each student to reflect, recognize and shine on their own unique path. Beyond a typical college application that list off their strength, our hope is that the students, through this process, will gain a deeper understanding of the purpose our creator has created us. This is because each application they submit is more than a college application—it is a mission application, and we will be there to guide and congratulate each and every one of them.
|