Something many Canyon seniors can currently relate to is the struggle of filling out college applications. Looking a bit more locally, UC (University of California) and CSU (California State University) college applications were due on Dec. 1, 2025. The UC and CSU systems are some of the most sought-out institutions in California and potentially the nation. So, as expected, students across the state and country are anxiously awaiting their results.

A part of the admission process, which a large number of applicants worry about pertaining to the UC admission system, is the PIQs (Personal Insight Questions). Besides academic achievements, this section gives admission officers the chance to know more about the applicant; applicants must choose four out of the eight questions to fill out.

What really made this process hard for applicants is the struggle of deciding what to write about. Most do not want to sound too personal, while also wanting their application to stand out, so it leaves the question: "What do I write about?”

Applicants can write about a vast number of things, none of which need to be severely personal, as long as they fit the necessary criteria. A way to stand out is to share something about yourself that may be different from the other applicants. For example, if an applicant collects trading cards, they can write about what trading cards mean to them and why they started collecting them in the first place. On the other hand, if an applicant wishes to be a bit more personal, they can talk about a moment in their life where they felt like giving up or where they were struggling but persevered and found the light in a dark situation.

Now, on the other side of the spectrum, we have CSU applications. Admittedly, many CSU schools are less sought-after in comparison to UC schools; however, each school is still just as important, and each student who applied knows how crucial it is to attend one of these schools.

For the CSU application, there are no essays or inquiry questions, unless you apply to a specific major that requires some sort of supplemental. The fact that there is no essay requirement takes the pressure off many students and makes the overall application process easier. All the applicant has to do is fill out any requested information, such as grades, merits, and personal information, and then send in their application to their preferred school(s).

Regardless of this, CSU applications should not be underestimated, as they hold a lot of weight on students' futures. Every CSU has very strong majors that many students enjoy, which gives the school a major boost, just like the UCs.

Additionally, for our future seniors, it is never too early to start thinking about ideas on how to formulate your application. Thinking early can help you better prepare for each application and also know exactly what you may need to make your best possible application.

Nevertheless, every applicant has their own unique strengths that will make them stand out, so there is no need to overly stress! Everyone is on their own path, and there is no rush to figure things out. Have faith in yourself, and know you are worth more than an application, no matter the result.