College is a seven letter word that puts a lot of stress on everyone.

There’s so much decision making. You have to figure out if you want to go in or out of state; if you want a small or big college; what you’re going to do once you get there; and how in the world you’re going to pay for it.

Until this year, college felt so far away but, it turns out, this is the most important year of my high school career.

I hear people all the time saying, “I wish I would’ve tried harder in my freshman year.”

All four years are important but there’s a lot of pressure on juniors. It was scary to think that the decisions I made last year could have changed my whole life.

Of course, it’s no secret that college is definitely not cheap. When you add up tuition, fees, food, housing, books, and more fees, you get a pretty large number. It is because of this very large number that a lot of students just lose hope and say there’s no way.

One of my friends was saying, “I have three little brothers and my parents just can’t do it.” They’re wrong.

There are so many ways out there that give people the opportunity for an education.

These days, you can get a scholarship for anything from being short to being left–handed. You have options.

Military is an option. Going into the military just for an education isn’t what I’m suggesting doing; but if you want to fight to protect your, your family’s, your friends, and your children’s freedoms and get an education along the way, then don’t hesitate.

The thought of college can be very overwhelming and intimidating, but it’s very possible for anyone who wants it, has determination, and will work for it.

So to all those out there who are terrified–calm down, take a breath, and figure out what you have to do.

To all of those who have lost hope – if you really want it, there’s always a way.

Kristina Kashuba is an upcoming senior at Pelham High School.