You’ve been on your grind, written your essays, filled out your SRAR, made an introductory video or two, and paid all the fees. You’ve created passwords for all your applicant status portals and your checklists show “Received” next to each item. What do you do now?
1. First, take a breath.
You’ve earned it! Applying to college is stressful, demanding of your time, and can feel like it is all-consuming. Now that you have submitted, take advantage of your newly empty schedule to do something special for yourself. Remember, in less than 8 months, you’ll be away at college. This might be the last time you live at home with your parents. Hang out with your little siblings, your neighborhood friends, and enjoy this moment.
2. Leave your application alone. I mean it, don’t look at it anymore.
Nothing can be gained by parsing through your submitted essays and freaking out about typos or what you should have done. This will not do you any favors. Don’t waste your time worrying about what is out of your hands.
3. Keep your grades up.
Schools will receive updated transcripts before they make a decision on your file. It’s essential to keep your grades up, and if you can improve them over last semester or quarter, that’s even better. Stay focused, keep studying for your end of year exams (AP, IB, A-levels, etc.) and don’t let Senioritis set in.
4. Update your application if you need to.
Have you been recognized for an accomplishment? Won an award? Qualified for a competition? Had a killer sports season? For many schools, there is a place in your applicant portal to upload application updates. You can also find your regional Admissions Officer’s email address to send them an update.
5. Accept your back up plan.
If you have been following us from the beginning, you should have a balanced college list that includes not only reaches and targets, but also “safety” schools where you can see yourself thriving. Don’t put all your eggs into your first-choice basket; prepare yourself for the possibility that you will end up at your second, third, or even fourth-choice school. That’s okay, though – because if you can’t see yourself there, you wouldn’t have applied.
Need help?
Aristotle Circle can provide guidance through every step of the college admissions process, including post-submission strategy. Navigating the deferral process and wait list is our specialty. Give us a call at 212-360-2301 or email us at info@aristotlecircle.com for more information.
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