Posted on April 4 2011 by John Grant

Admissions Heartbreak: An Action Plan for the Universally Rejected

The worst has happened. You have received rejection letters from every single college you applied to—even your so-called “safety schools.” Take a minute to grieve. Now, follow these steps to take back control of your future.

Step 1: Take heart. You may have miscalculated your odds of acceptance at your safety schools. You may be the victim of bad luck. Either way, don’t take the rejection as a judgment of your self-worth, and know that you are not alone. There are plenty of college options out there for all kinds of students, and with some additional effort, you’re sure to find schools that fit you.

Step 2: Take stock. Revisit your inventory of college needs and wants and consider whether a less prestigious institution or a community college could be a viable alternative. Some community colleges now offer honors programs with challenging coursework, stimulating classmates and professors that put teaching above publishing. Some of these programs can be great launching pads for higher education aspirations. And if you bypassed state universities during your first round of applications, consider giving them a second look. But don’t delay if money is a consideration. Applications for merit and need-based aid are often due by May 1 even for schools that continue accepting students over the summer.

Step 3: Take action. There are many, many 4-year residential colleges and universities in the U.S. with rolling admissions policies and final deadlines in April through August. If you act quickly, you still have time to apply to some great schools, including Coker College (South Carolina), Marietta College (Ohio), Lewis University (Illinois) and Pace University (New York). Each of these schools is a respectable option for students and they all have final application deadlines on April 15. Higher achieving students may want to take a look at New College of Florida, a liberal arts school featured in Colleges That Change Lives. These are just a few of the schools throughout the country that offer excellent educational opportunities — often at a very reasonable cost, with financial aid available — without the selective admissions process. Renew your search today and you may find some great schools that are still accepting applicants for a few more weeks.

Step 4: Take some time. Seriously consider the option of a “gap year.” Taking a year off between high school and college could be a way to gain an enriching life experience, and it is unlikely to negatively impact your future chances of admission into the college of your dreams. In fact, a year away from school may have the opposite effect, by providing you some valuable life experiences and time to clarify your objectives. Just be sure to take gap year planning as seriously as college planning. Research your options for service projects, working, travel and/or immersion studies carefully. Set goals for the year, along with a budget and a schedule.

It may be hard to believe right now, but the string of college rejections you just received may open the door to a great opportunity you would otherwise have missed. If you would like to check out any of the colleges mentioned above, or find other schools that match your personality and interests, sign up for a free membership at WiseChoice.com today.

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