First off, sorry for not getting a post out last week! My work just got on top of me. Now, to the point of this post: I know that early decision notifications have gone out, which can be a pretty stressful time for people. If you’ve opened an acceptance letter, congratulations! Welcome to the class of 2023. You’re inheriting my class color, yellow. (Or “golden!” if the deans are trying to make us feel better about the situation). It can be tricky to make that color flattering (I, for one, am far too blonde) but I have hope that your generation will be the one to break the cycle.
But for those of you who aren’t getting in this round, I want to talk about what that means for you. Quick return to list format:
Things That Not Getting Accepted Early Decision ABSOLUTELY DOES NOT Mean:
-That you will never succeed in life. Imagine your least favorite job. Porta-potty cleaner? That’s your future now.
-That an institution you love has peered deep into the depths of your soul, understood the very nature of your character intimately, and found you lacking.
-That everyone who has gotten in is better than you. Their essay was more thoughtful. Their grades were more impressive. Their posture is straighter and their hair is shinier. They probably never have breakouts.
-That you will never go to Wellesley now.
Things That Not Getting Accepted Early Decision DOES Mean:
-You’re gonna have to reapply.
Honestly, that’s it. Wellesley Admissions staff reviewed your application and decided for any number of reasons (most of which don’t reflect your value as a student) that you weren’t a good fit for early decision. That’s all. Maybe they wanted to see another writing sample or your second semester grades or if you were going to follow through on your plan to start a robotics club or any other seemingly tiny issue. There is so much in this process that is beyond your control, and that is both terrifying and freeing. Do your best, and the rest isn’t your fault.
I didn’t apply anywhere early decision, but I did apply and get rejected from a lot of places regular decision. I remember feeling like every college acceptance or rejection was a reflection on me, personally, but it definitely wasn’t. It was a reflection of a few people’s opinion of my application. That’s all. I’m not kidding when I say that I was rejected from a lot of places–six colleges turned me down, total. (Six.) And look how it turned out! I’m here, at Wellesley, and so very happy about it. It’s completely understandable to be upset that your initial plans haven’t work out–I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have the occasional moment even now wondering what Middlebury had against me–but things will work out. (I mean, I assume–aliens could invade or something–but college-wise at least, these things tend to work out just fine.)
Will diving back into the college application process make you feel better? Do that. Will taking a short break be better for you? Do that instead. Be honest with yourself about how much enthusiasm and energy you can bring to applications. If the answer is “none, the process has drained me and I need a full week off before I can even look at the Common App,” that’s very fine. I hope you all end up where you want to be.