The one word I hear most in my college planning and
counseling adventures is "overwhelmed." Followed, in many instances,
by "frustrated," "frightened," and "flabbergasted."
[The latter probably being a good SAT word! :-)]
How something so seemingly simply (it actually was just
that, back in the days when applications were written by hand and submitted via
the United States Postal Service) could be turned into something so complex,
complicated, costly, and, in almost every respect, inane.
The insanity of standardized testing. The incredulity of the
admissions process. The craziness of Common App. Early Action. Early Decision.
Restricted Early Action. Regular. Rolling. Is there Decaf?
Yes, the collegiate industrial complex has taken its toll on
students and parents alike, much to the pecuniary benefit of those
not-for-profits in name only ala College Board, Common App, and the colleges
themselves, looking at us with money bags in their big, greedy eyes, concerned
not nearly as much with educating and enlightening as they are with enrollment
and the bottom line.
Add to this the ever-ambiguous TMI -- Too Much Information,
much of it erroneous. From the Internet to the Guidance office to the talking
heads at the PTA meetings. Enough to bring an Einstein to his knees.
Still, when all is said, if far from done, with more than
3000 accredited colleges in this country, there is a good fit for each student;
a college that is "best," not for U.S.
News & World Report, but for the student.
Amidst the angst and anger, terror and tears, we must find
calm and tranquility (a pint of your fave ice cream and a very large spoon is
often most comforting :-), and take solace that you will find a college where
you will thrive and have the time of your life. You will get in to (and find
the money to pay for) a fantastic school. You will survive the trauma of
rejection and, if not today, then, certainly, tomorrow, you will laugh about
such meaningless, mindless, meanderings as the SAT, college rankings, "Why
Michigan?" and "Describe yourself in 140 characters or less."
Above all, take this whole application and admissions
process in stride. Relax. Keep calm and carry on. It's only college!
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Call COLLEGE CONNECTION today at 516-345-8766 and let us help you successfully navigate the road to college!
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