With college applications done and submitted, you may encounter both relief and anxiety as you wait for admissions news. The waiting game can be stressful, especially during a global pandemic when so much can change in just a few months. Here are some tips to help you pass the time and remain patient as you wait for admissions news.
Make sure you submitted everything
Check on the status of your application to ensure all the necessary components were received. Most schools allow you to look online to make sure they have your application, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. If you can’t find it online, contact the admissions office. Don’t be afraid to reach out to the admissions counselors; they want to hear from you!
Be patient and don’t worry
The rest is now out of your hands, so it’s not worth the worry! If you start to feel anxiety, take care of yourself. Do you have practices that help you relax and destress? Maybe it’s curling up under a weighted blanket, journaling your feelings, or going for a walk to clear your head. For more self-care ideas, check out this article. And remember, just because the decision process takes time doesn’t mean that you weren’t accepted. The waiting will be over soon, and you will have your news. If there are friends receiving acceptance letters before you, try to stay supportive. Your time will come, too.
Plan ahead
Take time to consider your other options in case things don’t work out as expected. Come up with other plans if you don’t get into your school of choice or if you don’t obtain the financial aid you need. If you haven’t already created a few backup plans, schedule a meeting with your counselor or talk with your parents, family, or mentor. Don’t forget about other options such as community college, a gap year, or an internship.
Give thanks
Make cards, write emails, or pick some daisies for all the people that helped you through the application process. This includes school counselors or teachers who wrote recommendations, friends who proofread your essays, and mentors who gave moral support through it all. During a time of distress, showing gratitude will keep you at peace.
Make the most of your last year of high school
Even though the rest of your high school experience might look a little different than you expected, you can still make the most of this time. You will likely make some big decisions in the coming months regardless of the admissions news you receive. Your life is about to change, so embrace your friends and family, enjoy some social distanced fun, and be creative when you visualize your future. Do your best to maintain your grades, especially after committing to a school. The world may be changing, but your dreams remain important.
If you really had your heart set on one school, keep in mind there are many paths to the same goal. Perhaps there’s a better option out there for you. Not to mention, you will always have the choice to transfer schools! No matter what happens, this is your journey. If you’re still struggling with uncertainty, read these tips!