And no sleep was had that night.

Colleges and Universities A-Z Union College - New York
1

<p>Hi, guys,</p>

<p>I know I'm relatively unknown here and that my posts (and most people's) mean absolutely nothing, but I'm a little on edge right now and if anybody is stalking application links like I am, the least I can do is try and provide some insight. I was rejected from several schools in the past week, and I'm nervous for Union, too.</p>

<p>Take insight from a 17-year old with a huge grain of salt.</p>

<p>I just wanted to wish everybody good luck tomorrow with Union, and I hope all of you are happy with the outcome. Union is a top choice for me, so I've been freaking out a little bit as the decision comes tomorrow morning, but I think it's important to remain calm and unassuming in situations like this.</p>

<p>What is most important to understand is that even if you are rejected, it's not because you are inadequate or unintelligent -- nobody who was accepted over you is necessarily better in any way. They were simply different from you.</p>

<p>College admissions these days are ridiculously competitive, and sometimes that causes us to lose sight of what's important. Getting good grades is excellent. Do that. But there is something to be said for the kid who can balance social life with academics. There are plenty of perfect SAT score, 4.0 GPA kids out there, but you can bet that their life in high school was miserable and full of stress and they'll probably have gray hair before they're 20.</p>

<p>Life does not depend solely on grades, and you need to take that into account. At least from a personal perspective, my GPA is low because I am a two-time cancer patient, in an adoptive family I don't get along with. Everybody goes through pain and stress and it does affect people in a negative manner; however, it is how you choose to deal with that suffering that defines you as a person.</p>

<p>My point (besides needing to rant) is that no matter how many schools you are rejected from or accepted to, you are still the same person and don't question that based on the decisions of the allegedly all-knowing College Admissions Office. I know most schools say they're holistic, but they have relatively little time to understand the whole life they are holding in their hands, whereas you have literally had a lifetime. If you are happy with yourself, ultimately, that is all that matters. Don't let a college decision define you.</p>

<p>Once again, good luck, and try and get some sleep tonight.</p>

<ul>
<li>Alex</li>
</ul>

2

<p>Alex - what a wise young man you are! Thank you for sharing your story. </p>

<p>Union is one of my son’s top two choices - we absolutely loved it when we visited. My son is traveling right now and made us promise not to look tomorrow morning - arghhh! So we’ll open the portal tomorrow evening.</p>

<p>I’m very sorry about your rejections. As you say, don’t take it personally but it’s hard too to not and it’s okay to feel bad for a bit. I work for a college and was talking with a prof today who has kids in college. She had some wise words - to choose the college where you’re wanted. My son has also had struggles that most haven’t gone through at such a young age. I think ultimately it’s made him - and I’m sure the same for you - much stronger and resilient. I do believe things happen for a reason although it’s hard to understand that when you’re in the middle of it all.</p>

<p>You sleep well too and I’m hoping for positive decisions for you both! I’ll report in tomorrow evening likely.</p>

<p>Best to you</p>