A reflection while waiting (dreading?) the SCEA results

Colleges and Universities A-Z Princeton University
1

<p>As December 16th approaches, I, like many others on this thread, have been obsessing over the coming results. I figure that I have above average chances, with a 2400, 4.0, leadership, extracurriculars, etc., and a sibling who is a recent graduate. I have some high expectations, with my sibling, and with everyone thinking that Princeton is a lock. After looking at the stats, I think ~20% for me is about right. </p>

<p>Obviously, that means about an 80% chance that I get rejected(or deferred), which is not too pleasant to think about. So, I've reflected on two scenarios once I hear my results. </p>

<ol>
<li><p>I don't get accepted. Keep in mind that there are TONS of other amazing schools that are easier to get accepted to. The most important thing I've seen is that it ultimately doesn't matter that much where you go for college. At least 50 schools in the U.S. will give you the same chance to succeed. So, remember to take full advantage of whatever college you guys go to in the end. College is merely a means, not an ends in itself. </p></li>
<li><p>I get accepted! This may even be harder to deal with later. I'm going to challenge myself, and whoever is reading this, not to get complacent. The best aspect of Princeton is the opportunities it offers, with an environment of successful, motivated people all willing to help. Use this wonderful opportunity as a springboard to the future. </p></li>
</ol>

<p>Basically, don't stress too much about your applications. Put in your best effort, then look to the future and challenge yourself to do the best that you can!</p>

<p>Sorry if this post is a little personal, but as I've been reading other posts I've been able to relate to a ton of other people. I just wanted to share my thoughts. Please share your stories and thoughts as well. </p>

<p>Good luck to all of you SCEA applicants! (and everyone else as well)</p>

2

<p>You sound like you have a really good attitude. When I started my account, I was sure I wanted to go to Princeton. I have relatives who went there, I’ve spent portions of summers there for various camps, and I was sure it was the place for me. In the end, it really wasn’t, but it took me some time to figure that out over the course of the fall.</p>

<p>For one, I found out that I enjoyed my visits to schools with a smaller student body more than the ones with a larger enrollment. I have also lived in a city, in suburbs and in the country. I like the country better. Ultimately, when I finally left my choice up to my actual experience on campus when school was in session, I fell in love with a school that had not even been on my radar until last July. Best of all, that school chose me even before I submitted my application. Princeton was cordial and I talked to them through September but they were lukewarm at best. Apply, we’d love to have you, but no, they could not promise anything. (i.e., no likely). So much for thinking you know what you want. I realize now I really didn’t know much of anything.</p>

<p>So, best of luck to all of you guys waiting. I’ll root for you all and hope Princeton is the right place for you. It’s a very special place but I now know there are lots of special places, I know everyone here will find their own. Peace out!</p>

3

<p>That is a really good attitude. :slight_smile: Princeton is my dream school and has been since sophomore year, but as Monday approaches, I realize that I just didn’t start early enough or work hard enough. I have a .00001% chance of getting in at best (2070, 3.9, only one real extracurricular), and I have to learn to be okay with that. I’ve spent the past few weeks looking at a couple other schools and seeing that although they’re not my dream, they can still be amazing. Amherst, Patrick Henry, Georgetown, William and Mary…I don’t know if I’ll get into all of them, but they’re all excellent schools that can help me go for my passions. And I’m learning to be okay with that.</p>

<p>I’ve wrapped up a lot of my self-worth in whether or not I can get into Princeton, and I’m going to spend the next five days trying to unravel those strings so I’m ready to find a new dream.</p>