8 tips for handling college acceptance and rejection letters

Remember what this decision means - and doesn't mean. Decisions are simply a reflection of the admissions process, not of your self-worth or abilities. Didn't get into Harvard? Don't fret, of the 10 highest grossing companies of the Fortune 500-only one CEO is an Ivy league graduate

2. Avoid comparing yourself to others.     

Colleges make decisions based on a variety of criteria, not simply on GPA and test scores. It's simply a waste of time to try and make sense of why someone else was or wasn't accepted. Instead, concentrate on you and what your next steps should be.

3. Research all options carefully.

Gather as much information as possible about your options from a variety of sources (e.g. attend admitted student days, compare financial aid and scholarship offers, talk to current students/alumni/parents /counselors). If you still have more questions, contact an admissions or financial aid counselor at the colleges to which you have been accepted to get answers.

4. After careful research write a list of pros/cons.

Does one college stand out among the rest? Ask yourself the most important question: Could I be happy here?

5. Accept only one offer of admission by submitting your enrollment deposit by the National Reply date of May 1.

It is unethical to submit an enrollment deposit to more than one college as this takes a space away from another well-deserving student.

6.  Notify other colleges that you are not attending.

It's common courtesy (and just in case you might someday transfer, don't burn bridges).

7. Finish senior year strong.

With the excitement of thinking about your next four years in college, prom and your last summer of high school, it's easy to forget about the fact that your race isn't quite over yet. If you read your letter of admission, chances are it says that your admission is contingent on you finishing your senior year strong. College can, and do, rescind offers of admissions if student's grades significantly decline.

8. Make sure to thank those who helped you through this process-mom/dad, counselors, teachers, friends, etc.