I’ve seen plenty of students and parents who spent the college admissions process in a constant state of worry. Worried about test scores. Worried about impressing prestigious colleges. Worried about whether or not their dream school will say yes.
But I can’t recall a single time where any of that worrying actually changed the outcome for the better.
Worry is not a productive emotion. It distracts kids and parents from those elements they can control. Worrying begets more worrying and ruins what should be an exciting time.
Some families are convinced that all this worry is necessary, unavoidable, or somehow a sign that they are giving the college admissions process the attention it deserves. It’s not. It’s like jealousy, anger, or resentment, something that feels real but almost never makes things any better.
Take your college future seriously, yes. But don’t worry. You’ve got more important, more productive things to do.