Waiting Between the RD Deadline and Admissions Decisions
Congratulations on submitting your regular decision application to Barnard! The college application process can be stressful and time-consuming, and I hope getting through it has been a relief.
But as application season draws to a close, I know some people might feel that the joy of having finished the process is overshadowed by the months of waiting stretching ahead. After working so hard to submit recommendation letters, perfect essays, and study for exams, it can be frustrating to know there’s nothing to do now but wait.
It’s easy to tell students in your position to “just relax” since there’s nothing else you can do. While it’s true that the decision is out of your hands now, it’s natural to struggle to relax about something you worked so hard on. While it may not be as simple as kicking back without a care in the world until March, here are some ways to reduce stress as you wait for your admissions decisions this spring.
First, follow the admissions social media accounts of the schools you applied to if you don’t already! Some schools may announce when decisions will be out on these platforms or provide other information as they read applications, and this is a great way to make sure you’re in the loop.
Once you know when you’ll get decisions back from your schools, try to make fun plans around those dates! This could mean going on an adventure with friends, getting food from somewhere you love, a pedicure, or just taking yourself out to get a nice coffee. Whatever it is, have something fun or special planned the weekend or week after decisions come out. This makes the results just one of the things happening that week, and gives you something to look forward to no matter what!
In the meantime, close your computer. If you’re a researcher like I was, it can be super tempting to use forums like College Confidential or other online websites to read about admissions stats and rumors. Trust in the information that comes from the college social media, website, and emails, and try to stay away from these forums if you can!
Finally, and most importantly, congratulate yourself on finishing your applications! Your second semester of senior year is starting, so make sure to take advantage of the time to spend time with your friends and family at home. Some of my best memories of high school were formed once I didn’t have college applications hanging over my head, so take advantage of the time if you can!