After meeting all deadlines for applications, FAFSA, CSS Profile, here come admission decisions time. Students will soon be receiving notification. It’s an exhilarating albeit nerve-wracking time. For some, it’ll be a moment of excitement, elation and relief. For others, well, there might be tears, disappointment and confusion. Yes, getting rejected is bound to happen to some of you. It’s simply the sad reality of the admissions game.
Naturally, we realize this can be a difficult time. To that end, we thought we’d offer up some advice on how to best deal with rejection.
It’s okay to be upset.
Rejection is difficult, no matter the context. It’s important to understand that you’re permitted to be sad or upset. Allowing yourself to feel these emotions is completely healthy and, in fact, a vital part of the healing the process. Just make sure you don’t dwell in a negative head space for too long.
Talk to a trusted friend, family member or guidance counselor.
Often times, talking through your emotions and venting your frustrations can help you find closure or clarity. Consider speaking with a friend who also received a rejection. You’ll be able to sympathize with each other and perhaps buoy each other’s spirits. You might also want to talk with your parents. After all, they’re certainly your biggest champions. Moreover, they’ve probably encountered a stumbling block (or two!) in their life. And they can likely shed some insight on how to overcome a setback. Finally, schedule an appointment with your guidance counselor. He/she can analyze the situation and help you focus on other options.
Make a list of pros and cons for the school.
Aside from being a wildly fun activity, crafting a list of pros and cons will likely provide some much needed objectivity. Find a moment for some earnest reflection and really think about what your dream school would have offered, warts and all. You might come to the realization that things have actually worked out for the best. Additionally, the list can be used for comparison against the schools you’re still considering. You could be pleasantly surprised to discover just how closely some your other collegiate options really do measure up to this particular school.
Ask for feedback.
We know it might sound a little awkward or intimidating, but you can contact an admissions office to inquire about their decision. Many schools are happy to shed some light on the thought process involved. And you can use their answers to potentially tweak your other applications accordingly.
Realize it’s not the end of the world.
When you receive a rejection letter, it can appear as though the world is crashing down upon you. In the blink of an eye, everything you worked for seems for naught. However, the reality is really far less dramatic. You will be okay. You will survive. Everyone gets rejected from time to time. In fact, plenty of your peers are probably facing the same predicament. Getting rejected from a school doesn’t signify that you’ll never be successful. Or that you should rethink your dreams and professional ambitions. It simply means that you won’t be pursuing your studies at a particular institution.
Listen, rejection is difficult. No one wants to be turned down, especially from a school they had their heart set on attending. If you find yourself in this situation, try not to get too discouraged. Sure, you can take a moment to wallow. However, don’t let yourself be waylaid by this one decision. Instead, realize that this isn’t a commentary on your worth; colleges are frequently forced to reject qualified candidates. Do your utmost to move past this minor (yes minor!) roadblock and begin to focus on the other higher ed. possibilities that are sure to come your way!
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