Taking Flight: Early Admission Decisions Are Landing Soon!
December kicks off application notification season and it’s right around the corner.
Seniors, the moment you've been waiting for (and maybe dreading a little!) is almost here: many early-round college application decisions will be arriving soon! Whether you applied Early Action or Early Decision to your dream schools, it's time to prepare for the exciting, and possibly nerve-wracking, news headed your way.
Does the “Thin Envelope” myth really reign true?
The "Thin Envelope" Myth: For decades, anxious applicants believed that a thin envelope from a college meant rejection, while a thick envelope signaled acceptance. This was often true, as thin envelopes contained only a rejection letter, while thick envelopes held more materials for accepted students. However, with the rise of online portals and digital communications, this tradition is fading. Most colleges now communicate decisions exclusively online, rendering the envelope's thickness irrelevant!
Important Dates for Your College List
Make sure you've noted the decision release dates for all the schools you applied to, whether they're rolling admissions, Early Action, Early Decision, or regular decision. College Kickstart produces a great list each year. Click here for notification dates for the Class of 2029 (current senior students).
Preparing for Every Outcome: Accept, Deny, Defer
No matter what the outcome, it's important to keep a level head and remember that one decision doesn't define your future. Here's how to navigate each scenario:
Acceptance: Congratulations! Celebrate your achievement, you’ve earned it! Be sure to thank all those people who helped you along the way (parents, teachers, counselors, coaches, etc.).
Denial: It's okay to feel disappointed, but don't let it discourage you. Remember that college admissions are incredibly competitive. Take time to process your emotions, seek support from your family and counselors, and focus on the other schools on your list. You have other amazing options and college fit (from both sides) is so essential!
Deferral: A deferral means your application will be reconsidered during the regular decision round. Use this as an opportunity to strengthen your application! Send an updated transcript with improved grades, highlight new accomplishments, and consider submitting a letter of continued interest to reiterate your enthusiasm for the school.
Staying on Track: What Seniors Should Focus on Now
Even with decisions looming, it's essential to stay focused on your academics and extracurriculars:
Keep those grades up! Colleges will request your final transcript, and maintaining strong academic performance is imperative. If you were deferred at a campus you want to be able to report a strong GPA so keep pushing.
Stay involved: Continue participating in your extracurricular activities and demonstrate your commitment to your passions.
Don't neglect your well-being: The college application process can be stressful. Make sure you're prioritizing your mental and physical health.
Remember: You've worked hard and this is an exciting time, full of possibilities. No matter what decisions arrive, you have a bright future ahead!
Helping you soar sooner,
Carrie