getting rejected from almost every college I applied to: my experience | what (not) to do, advice

Summary

In this honest and reflective video, Charlotte shares her journey of college rejection and the unexpected path that led her to the University of Iowa. Despite initially facing disappointment and struggling with self-doubt, Charlotte learned valuable lessons about the importance of setting realistic goals, focusing on personal growth, and embracing the unpredictability of life. Her story highlights the power of resilience, the importance of self-discovery, and the realization that college is not the end-all-be-all. Charlotte offers advice to future college applicants, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the process and trusting that life’s twists often bring what you need, even if not what you expect.

Takeaways

• 😀 College applications are not just about academic performance; external pressures and motivations, like seeking recognition, play a significant role in decision-making.
• 😀 Rejection from top universities can be emotionally devastating, but it’s important to recognize that failure doesn’t define your future.
• 😀 It's essential to plan and research your college options well in advance to make informed decisions, rather than rushing through the application process.
• 😀 Success in college admissions often depends on more than just grades—it’s about dedication, passion, and showing a unique, focused set of interests or skills (spikes).
• 😀 College is a place for personal growth and discovering yourself, not just about getting into a prestigious institution.
• 😀 The importance of mental health during the application process cannot be overstated. Balancing stress and self-care is key.
• 😀 Don’t be afraid to choose a school that might not be considered 'elite.' Often, unexpected opportunities and personal growth come from less traditional paths.
• 😀 Surround yourself with positive, supportive people in college—they significantly influence your personal growth and mental well-being.
• 😀 College isn’t the end-all, be-all. It’s a stepping stone to greater experiences and self-discovery, and it’s okay to not have everything figured out right away.
• 😀 Embrace the journey, try new things, and allow yourself to experiment and explore new passions and experiences in college.
• 😀 Life doesn’t always go as planned, but it can still bring you what you need. Sometimes, the setbacks lead to the best experiences and growth.

Q & A

What was Charlotte's initial emotional reaction to being rejected from the top universities she applied to?

Charlotte initially felt devastated and experienced a sense of failure, despite the hard work and late nights she put into her high school years. She struggled with feelings of inadequacy as she saw her peers celebrating their college acceptances.

How did Charlotte describe her approach to applying to college?

Charlotte admitted to procrastinating and applying at the last minute, choosing schools without thorough research or clear intentions. She also mentioned that she applied to extremely competitive universities but lacked the preparation and dedication to fully pursue those options.

What did Charlotte realize about the importance of ambition in her college applications?

Charlotte recognized that while ambition is valuable, it must be coupled with preparation and genuine dedication. She realized that those who succeed in highly competitive college admissions are those who work extremely hard and have a clear focus or 'spike' in their efforts.

What was Charlotte's perception of the college application process during high school?

Charlotte saw the college application process as a way to gain external validation, especially through the prestige of top universities. She was influenced by peer pressure and societal expectations rather than pursuing schools that genuinely aligned with her academic and personal interests.

How did Charlotte's upbringing and personality influence her college applications?

Charlotte’s upbringing, particularly her competitive nature and the pressure of being part of a highly selective international school, played a major role in her decision to apply to prestigious institutions. She felt the need to distinguish herself and gain recognition, driven by both her personality and cultural expectations.

What advice does Charlotte offer about the college application process based on her experiences?

Charlotte advises students to plan and research their college applications well in advance. She emphasizes the importance of understanding 'fit'—finding schools that truly match one's academic and personal needs—rather than simply aiming for highly selective schools for the prestige.

What was Charlotte's experience like at the University of Iowa, and how did it differ from her expectations?

Charlotte’s experience at the University of Iowa turned out to be unexpectedly positive. She met diverse people, tried new activities, and learned more about herself. Despite initially being disappointed with her college rejection, she now sees her time at Iowa as one of the best things that happened to her.

How did Charlotte's social environment at the University of Iowa contribute to her personal growth?

Charlotte’s exposure to a diverse student body and different lifestyles at Iowa helped her expand her worldview. She connected with kind people, learned about various cultures, and felt that the connections she made were genuine and meaningful, which played a key role in her personal growth.

What specific activities did Charlotte engage in during her first semester at the University of Iowa?

Charlotte participated in a variety of activities including skydiving, performing K-pop on stage, volunteering with kids, attending live readings, and meeting authors. These experiences helped her step outside her comfort zone and discover new passions.

What is Charlotte's final message about college and the overall journey of self-discovery?

Charlotte emphasizes that college is just a stepping stone in life and that it’s not the be-all and end-all. She encourages students to enjoy the process, focus on personal growth, and not to stress excessively over grades or achievements. College is an opportunity to experiment, find yourself, and develop lasting relationships.