With college application decisions coming out, it’s almost impossible not to compare, share and discuss students’ highs and lows during this stressful and pivotal moment in their educational journeys. While successes should be celebrated with staff, administration and friends, negative emotions still may arise for students out of jealousy or stress about their own applications.
The question then arises—should students refrain from talking about college applications altogether? Not necessarily. While some students carry the philosophy of “what’s done is done,” others stick to a more quiet path to success. Talking about college applications may enhance loyal and trusting relationships between students, as much as it can break them by withholding certain details about one’s application.
“I think college apps should stay private in general. I regret telling everyone where I have applied only because the thought of not getting in and having to tell people I didn’t get in is scary,” senior Eleanor Tsimbal said.
While political uncertainty, unguaranteed financial support and college prestige weighs on the minds of many students, so does the notion that their peers are competition. In such times, it’s important to stop returning to such a mindset, and instead continue on with the belief that the school they get accepted to is the right fit for them.
“I’ve always said that comparison is the thief of joy,” senior Thomas White said. “I’ll never look at applicants to the same schools as me as adversaries or competition, but rather friends going through the same process.”
This part in many students’ lives is a good time to abstain from talking about college-related topics and instead widen their interests by rediscovering what they love with friends. Though, when it does come down to college discussion, opinions are mixed on withholding information.
“I will never be anything but honest when it comes to the contents of my application, but I can understand why people might be. It’s a stressful, personalized process that can be revealing, so for that reason, I don’t disagree with the withholding of certain information,” White said.
Ultimately, it’s a good practice to abstain from talking about college decisions when it can potentially affect one’s mental health. Although it’s one of the most important letters seniors await at the conclusion of their time at Heritage, we have to keep calm and carry on.
“I know that wherever I am supposed to go is where I will go, and I will have a great time,” Tsimbal said.
College is what one makes of it. Even if students receive unfavorable decisions, whether that be in the early or regular decision round, there are always unorthodox ways to success.
“College apps have definitely been stressful, but honestly manageable with the right mindset,” White said. “This coincides with the advice I’d give, which would be to start early and get them done. Go over them with a fine-tooth comb, and make sure they encapsulate everything about you.”
