Note From Nic
“Credit belongs to the man whose face is marred
by dust and sweat; who strives valiantly
and if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly.”
Winter tidings and benedictions! This past weekend likely brought its share of celebration and disappointment... to those students who were accepted by their early decision schools and can now wipe their brow of college-application tedium, I’d like to extend my hearty congratulations...but this note isn’t for you! It’s for those who weren't quite as fortunate (whether you received a deferral or an invitation to move on, you probably count yourself in that category). For you, I have the following advice:
First, shake it off. The school you were praying and practicing good karma for was always going to be a crapshoot at best. If you were rejected, it doesn’t reflect on your worth and, believe me, they don’t know what they’re missing. Wash your hands, do some jumping jacks, burn any early swag you bought, and roll up your sleeves because these next weeks will be busy! If you were deferred, reach out to the school renewing your interest and updating them on any recent activities that make you a strong candidate - but be sure to likewise direct your attention to the many other excellent colleges that would be thrilled to have you. Chins up folks, because you have a stack of supplements to plow through in the next two weeks.
Second, start working now! Students often make the mistake of designating a single weekend to crank out as many supplements as their fingers can type. But two weeks is plenty of time to include a thoughtful and thorough writing process. Incremental 30-60 minute sessions every night will give your ideas space to ferment and find definition.
Third, find a school you’re excited about. The crunch is no excuse for shots in the dark; admissions officers can tell if you haven’t done your research—and the students who have the most fulfilling application season, move through the process oriented around their own values and curiosities rather than colleges' amorphous allure and selective prestige. Look through course offerings, special programs, faculty, and extracurriculars. What stands out? You’ll be spending the next four years there, find a college you’ll like!
Lastly, share your work with family and mentors. A second (or third) pair of eyes can be extremely helpful in pointing out little oversights and careless mistakes. You don’t have to take all their advice but a quick review session with one of your parents, tutors, counselors, or older siblings can be invaluable. Don’t forget, your application will ultimately be read by another Human Being, and the best way to make sure your writing will resonate with someone else is by having someone else read it.
Best of luck, and happy holiday hustle,
Nic Vivas Nikonorow
Admissions Coach
Oxford Tutors NYC