Speaking from experience, April is probably the scariest, most stressful month of high school because come May 1^st, you’re expected to pick ONE of the millions of colleges you applied to. For indecisive people like myself, and those who don’t necessarily have a dream school, or maybe didn’t get into it, College Decision Day is extraordinarily daunting. How are you supposed to know where you want to end up and spend the next four years of your life when you feel too young and unprepared?

There is just so much pressure to pick the right college and the very thought of choosing the “wrong” school is terrifying. However, having gone through this, I have some tips for you:

1. Follow your heart

Although this may seem simple enough, it is really hard to do if you have no idea where your heart is at. It really is all about finding the school that feels right to you and feels like home. Maybe you didn't walk on a campus and immediately know you wanted to go there, or maybe the problem is that you liked all the schools you visited and now you can't decide. Either way, it is important to see where your heart is at and make a decision based off that.

For me, it took a deferral letter to realize where I really wanted to go. Look for the signs and follow them, your heart won't steer you wrong.

2. Be honest

During this process, it is important, to be honest with yourself and everyone else. Sometimes people try to influence you for one reason or another, but it is important to stay true to your heart and be honest. Even if a school isn’t as fun or popular as other schools if it has the major you want and people you can relate to, go there. Remember that it is you that is going to be living at that school for four years, not your parents, or your grandparents, or your friends. This is about you, so don’t forget to put yourself first.

3. Ask questions and do your research

If you really want to know something about a certain school, find someone who goes there and ASK. Not to sound like a grandma, but social media and the internet, are there for a reason. You can find anyone or anything you need. It is so important that you know what you are truly getting yourself into, not just what the college wants you to see on their tours. Who knows, maybe this person or new information will make your decision that much easier. And remember, you can always transfer, so never sweat the small stuff because everything will work out!

4. Don't be afraid to leave stuff behind

Do not follow anyone or anything. I know moving away from your family, friends, boyfriend, girlfriend, dog, whoever is really sad and scary… sad and scary enough to make you want to stay local even if that isn’t really what your heart wants. This goes back to being honest with yourself and remembering that you have to do this for you. I am not saying to forget about everything at home or anything like that, I am just telling you to not look back, because your future is ahead of you and you should focus on that.

5. Be proud

Last, but not least, be proud of your decision. You should be proud of your choice and yourself because the school that you choose is so very lucky to have you… never forget that.