At this point in the year, high school seniors have completed the stressful process of applying to college and are starting to receive admissions decisions. From completing and submitting applications, to anxiously checking inboxes for results, to deciding which college to attend… There are lots of ups and downs along the way, and it’s important to be prepared for both.
- Set realistic expectations. This is important not just for the student, but for the family and for the process itself. Do not expect acceptances to every school. Do not expect acceptance to your first-choice school. The college admissions process is competitive, and there are many qualified students who are applying to the same schools.
- Be prepared for rejection. Even if you have done everything “right”, you may not be accepted to a school. If you are denied admittance, don’t take it personally. Remember that colleges are businesses first-and-foremost. Your denial at a school may have nothing to do with your qualifications and everything to do with numbers and dollar amounts that school is working with in a given year.
- Talk to someone. If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed about the college admissions process, talk to someone. A parent, counselor, or teacher can offer support or advice.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you are eating well, getting enough sleep, staying active, spending time with friends and family, and exercising regularly. Taking care of yourself will help you cope with the stress of the college admissions process.
- Remember that you are not alone. The college admissions process is stressful for everyone at some point. Other students are going through the same thing, and sharing experiences will help you feel more grounded and can help that student as well.
- Parents: Show your student love and support. Acceptances or denials are not a reflection of their worth or abilities. A denial can simply mean there were too many applicants and not enough spaces, or that institutional priorities got in the way. If you’re disappointed, manage those feelings away from your student. Your child will bloom wherever they’re planted, and will find their place at a school that’s right for them.
And for the acceptances? Celebrate! Think about how (and if) you’ll share the news. (Remember that your child’s friends or peers may not have gotten the same positive outcome.) And consider sending thank you letters to those who have helped your student along the way. Teachers, coaches, family… Acknowledging their help can go a long way.
The college admissions process can be a challenging time, but it is also an exciting time. There are many great schools out there, and the right one may be just an email away.