As a junior in high school, the word college has gone from a distant idea to a very real part of everyday life. Between counselors, teachers, and parents constantly talking about it, it’s hard to ignore the fact that the future is coming fast.

Honestly, the college process seems super overwhelming at first. There are applications, essays, standardized tests, teacher recommendations, and deadlines that come up quicker than you’d expect. But the more I talk to seniors, the more I realize it’s manageable if you start early and stay on top of your application.

“I wish I had started writing my essays in the summer,” senior Yurim Chang told me. “It really sneaks up on you in the fall when school gets busy.”

But college isn’t just about applications, it’s about imagining what life could look like in a totally new environment. From living in dorms and choosing your own schedule, to finding clubs, and finding new friends, it’s a huge step towards living on your own.

Deciding what schools you would be interested in applying to is difficult, but narrowing down your options through making a list is important. Visiting campuses, reading student feedback, and checking out majors you like is a great place to start.

“I’ve visited schools all over the country and a lot of my favorites have been smaller schools,” junior Connor Moffitt told me. “I’ve learned that prioritizing a good fit matters more than a well-known school.”

You don’t have to go to a big-name school to have an amazing experience. It’s more important to focus on finding the right school for you, not anyone else.

If you’re a junior like me, it’s not too early to care, and it’s definitely not too late to start. Use the rest of this year to get organized, figure out where you want to go and stay on top of your applications. Your future self will thank you.