College application season is among us, and we know how stressful this time can be for many high school seniors and their families. Here are a few, simple tips to make the process a little less stressful:

• Start your applications early. Don’t add any extra stress to the process by waiting until the last minute. Use an online calendar, spreadsheet, or a good old fashioned bulletin board to map our all applications, required materials, and deadlines.
• Establish clear patterns of communication. Talk to your parents. Clearly communicate to them where you are in the process and what you need their help with. Now is NOT the time to cease communicating with anyone who is trying to help you with the process, despite how stressful things get at times.
• Take breaks. Read a favorite novel. Go see a movie. Take deep breaths and remember that this is a temporary state that, although stressful, will not last forever. And, if necessary, picture those acceptance letters rolling in next spring with the warmer weather.

Dr. Gillmore is an educator, consultant, and author who specializes in academic tutoring, standardized test prep, and writing and editing consulting.