Sure, the college process can be challenging when you're trying to balance school, sports, and other activities. The reality, however, is that almost every high school student has to get through it. Countless college visits, SAT/ACT classes, stressful applications -- it's all overwhelming. The college process is often overrated in my opinion.

Yes, it is a scary thing, and yes, you're making huge decisions, but how much of yourself do you really discover? A whole lot. Just take deep breaths and enjoy what you can. Your high school days are nearly over.

1. You realize your patience level.

You will never experience true patience until you are forced to wait on a college decision. Like, seriously, decision day is simultaneously the best and worst day of your life.

2. College applications will either make or break you.

It's that time of year when you sort of just want to cry, scream, laugh, and throw a tantrum all at once.

3. The college process guides you towards a brighter future.

College. Is. Important. Don't even try me on this one.

4. There is no room for procrastination.

This is the time when you're balancing a sport, schoolwork, a social life, college applications, a decent sleep schedule, and a healthy lifestyle (hopefully). If you procrastinate, it's over.

5. Prioritizing is a must.

I love Netflix, too, but that is just not going to get me the degree I want.

6. You are steps closer to complete adulthood.

Turning 18 is the entrance into adulthood legally, but getting into college or your preferred program is setting you up for 4 years of true, living-on-your-own adulthood.

7. You discover yourself.

You pick your potential major, you see where you're spending the next 4 years, and you meet all these new people. The best years of your life are about to begin, and your journey is now full steam ahead.