It’ll be okay.
My story: I was rejected here last year, ED, (deferred then rejected). I knew some of the admission officers (through personal relations) and I had a lot of immediate legacy. Not to toot my own horn, but when I was deferred, (then rejected) I was pretty stunned. Had the whole deal, valedictorian, principal rec, top SAT scores, etc. I spiralled into a depression when I didn’t get in and my depression had worsened badly enough that I was pushed to therapy.
But my point is: I ended up going to a school I never imagined and… I LOVE IT THERE. I’ve been counting down the days since winter break started because I’m so excited to return. If you’re devastated from being rejected, ED or RD, just know: everything DOES work out. If I had a choice between my current school and Duke, I’d pick my current school in a heartbeat. Not trying to slam Duke, but now, I look at Duke and laugh. I think, "How could I imagine going here?! It’s completely unfit for me! I can’t imagine being happier anywhere else, other than College ___. "
If you’re rejected, cry for a few days, but take it as a blessing.
Lord knows that my “depression” from rejection, was honestly just a miracle in disguise because now, I couldn’t be happier.
PS. this goes for any school, not just Duke.