Student Question: How do I avoid comparing the colleges I get into to the colleges my friends get into? I know everyone has their own destiny, but sometimes I feel so much dumber than all of them.

Abby’s Answer: College admissions are like shooting a basketball at a moving hoop—that is to say, difficult regardless of your skill level and with an element of randomness. The results of this “game” don’t say anything about your intelligence, much less you as a person. Remember, wherever you want to go in the future, college is just the first step on your journey; the rest is up to you. Good luck!

Q: Favorite lunch menu item and side?

A: I do enjoy a good chicken sandwich. Although I usually pair it with the classic baby carrots and chocolate milk, fortune cookies are definitely the best side. My last cookie informed me, “Patience is the secret to a joyful mind.” For a senior, it’s an important reminder. I just hope I can hold off the senioritis long enough to ensure a “joyful mind” at graduation.

Q: How do you deal with someone leaving that you’ll miss a lot?

A: We live in the digital age. When your friends head off to college, stay in touch! I know that’s easier said than done, but there are ways to maintain a long-distance friendship. For one, make sure to text or FaceTime them regularly to talk about your everyday lives (instead of just the most important updates). If you keep putting in the effort, you’ll stay connected no matter how far away they end up.