If you don’t make the squad after spending all summer relentlessly focused on training for football tryouts, it’s certainly disappointing. But there is still plenty to feel good about. You went after something that was important to you. There are plenty of other opportunities still available to you. And as a bonus, you’re probably in pretty good shape! You’re not on the team, but your future looks bright.
College admissions doesn’t always work the same way.
If you have a dream school, you should absolutely take your best shot at gaining an acceptance. But some students become so focused on their first choice that they spend all their time refining an already-refined application, often to the detriment of their applications to schools where their chances of admission are stronger. It’s good to be focused and goal-oriented. But you also have to make sure that no matter what happens, you have a college to attend that you’re excited about even if it’s not your first choice.
So seniors, please do an honest check-in with yourself. Are you spending a lot more time on an application to your dream school than you have with any others? Have you actually resisted even thinking about other schools because you’re so excited about what seems to be your perfect fit?
If so, recognize that application perfection is elusive and embrace good enough. Then redirect that time, attention, and energy to other schools. Yes, you want an admission to your dream school. But just in case your affection goes unrequited, spread the application love now so you’ll have some good options later.