"I was rejected from my dream college. What now?"
After sending your applications and hoping everything went well, the unthinkable happened: you received a rejection letter from your top-pick college.
If you feel like all hope is lost, we want to remind you that it is not the end of your road.
We know rejection is horrible, but it does not mean your academic career is over.
"What now?"
Let yourself feel sad about it.
First, acknowledge your feelings and let yourself experience them. Whether it is sadness, anger, or disappointment, dealing with these emotions will be helpful in the long run. Cry if needed, talk it out, and distract yourself with activities that make you happy.
Do not be rude to yourself.
Rejection is a normal part of the college application process. It is not a reflection of your worth or intelligence. Admissions decisions are based on a variety of factors, and many qualified applicants are rejected.
Research other schools.
Good news! There are other options. It is time to get excited about the other schools you're applying to or applied to. Focus on the distinctive attributes and opportunities that each institution offers. Consider what motivated you to apply. Can you imagine yourself feeling comfortable and welcomed on campus? What academic programs and majors does the school provide?
Think about transferring.
It is an option too! If you decide to attend a different school you got into, know that it might be possible to transfer to your top-choice school in a couple of years.
But we need to warn you: If you enter college thinking about this option, transferring is not guaranteed. Many schools, particularly the Ivies, accept very few transfers each year.
Take a gap year.
If you are not feeling your options, maybe taking a gap year could be helpful. It will let you figure out what you want in life and provide new, interesting experiences. After this time, you can then reapply to your top-choice school, with a fresh perspective.
If you choose to reapply, use your previous application as a reference. Reflect on any areas where you may have fallen short and consider how to enhance your application this time around.
Remember: College is what you make of it. Keep an open mind and be willing to explore new opportunities and experiences. You may be surprised at what you discover along the way.