Navigating the emotional turmoil of college admissions can be challenging, especially when faced with multiple rejections and deferrals. For many students, the pressure to gain acceptance into prestigious universities often overshadows personal growth and self-worth. The author reflects on their experience of applying to colleges, including their dream school, and grapples with feelings of failure after receiving disappointing news. Despite the societal narrative that equates success with attending top institutions, the author emphasizes the importance of defining personal success beyond external validation. They acknowledge that many successful individuals did not follow traditional educational paths, highlighting that self-worth should not be tied to acceptance letters. As they prepare for the next round of applications, the author is shifting their focus toward finding schools that align with their values and aspirations, reminding themselves that rejection does not diminish their potential or identity. Ultimately, the journey is about who they become, not just where they go.
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