In 2009 as the economy was crashing all around us, Collegewise had an opportunity to land a contract delivering our services to an entire school district. I saw it as a natural way for us to put our system to work on a larger scale, and it would have saved us from having to close one of our offices. I wrote the proposal, gave a presentation in my best suit, and got glowing reviews from the board in attendance. Then they awarded the contract to somebody else. I still remember taking the phone call in my office and slumping over my desk in disbelief.
When my parents called later that week to ask if I’d heard any news, I had to tell them that we didn’t get the contract. My dad had the perfect response:
“What?? Well, I think they’re idiots.”
Even at age 40, it’s no fun telling your parents you got rejected by somebody. You never want to feel like you've disappointed the people who raised you. But my dad’s response was exactly what I needed to hear. It made me laugh and I felt better almost immediately. Good job, Pop.
Parents, if your son or daughter receives a rejection from a college, that’s exactly what you should do, too. Don’t fall apart for them. Don’t treat it like a permanent setback. Don’t second guess the test scores or the essay topic or the choice not to apply early decision. Instead, just be supportive. Tell your student it’s the college’s loss, and save your celebration for a school that’s smart enough to make the right choice.
If it would help, go ahead and use my dad’s line. It really is perfect for almost any rejection occasion.