It is never easy facing rejection. This year, many schools witnessed record numbers of applicants, making it even harder for certain students to stand out. Colleges can only accept a limited number of applicants. As a result, many students are left to read that a college is  “very sorry to inform them that it is not possible to offer them admission.”
Despite the belief of a perfect fit, the U.S. alone has over 4,000 two and four year colleges. The key is finding out what suits you. Do you prefer a rural or city life? Large or small? Research or liberal arts? Out of the remaining options a student has, these considerations can be very valuable for making a “final” decision. Nonetheless, if a student realizes during their freshman or sophomore year that the college they selected is not the right fit, transferring is always an option.  When choosing a college for next year, try going back to that original college checklist or even listing out a school’s “pros” and “cons”. These techniques are helpful in narrowing down the college choices. Also, visiting schools again can help bring to light a school that will fit you well. Talking with parents, teachers, counselors and friends in a supportive environment will also make students feel more confident in their thinking.
In the end, as Harvard College’s admission board writes to the students it denies admission, “past experience suggests that the particular college a student attends is far less important than what the students does to develop his or her strengths or talents over the next four years.” By recognizing this, students can face rejection and allow themselves to have a rewarding and fulfilling college experience.