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COLLEGE MARNI SAYS


The applications are in, and now you wait, stuck on the emotional rollercoaster of “She loves me, She loves me not…” as you anticipate those college decisions. Every time you check your email or portal, it feels like plucking another petal off a daisy—will your dream school embrace you with open arms, or will you be left holding a bare stem?  


While this waiting period can feel like a slow-motion guessing game, don’t let it consume you. Instead of agonizing over decisions that are out of your hands, here’s how to spend February productively—and how to handle whatever petals fall when the results come in.  


While You Wait: Water the Garden, Don’t Just Pick the Petals


1. Stay Engaged in School

Your future college may be deciding on you, but your current teachers are still grading you. Don’t let senioritis wilt your academic record. Keep up the hard work—you’ll thank yourself later.  


2. Keep Pursuing Your Passions 

Think of your extracurriculars as the sunshine that keeps you thriving. Whether it’s dance, theater, debate, or sports, stay committed. These activities bring you joy and remind you that you are more than just an applicant.  


3. Resist the Urge to Overwater with Stress

It’s tempting to stalk college Reddit threads or refresh portals obsessively, but admissions decisions are like plants—you can’t make them grow faster by staring at them. Instead, focus on things that bring you peace and excitement.  


4. Plant the Seeds of an Open Mind

Maybe you have a dream school, but don’t put all your petals in one basket. Research multiple colleges, consider all your options, and get excited about places that have already said “yes” to you.  


When Decisions Arrive: Petals Fall, but the Bloom Remains


1. The “Yes” Petal – Celebrate, but Stay Grounded 

An acceptance letter is a huge achievement! Celebrate, but also take time to consider: Is this school the right fit financially, socially, and academically? Visit again if possible, talk to current students, and compare aid packages before making a final commitment.  


2. The “No” Petal – It’s Not a Reflection of Your Worth  

Rejections sting, but they don’t define you. Admissions decisions are influenced by factors beyond your control—sometimes it’s about institutional priorities, not personal merit. Allow yourself to feel disappointed, then shift your focus to opportunities ahead.  


3. The “Maybe” Petal – Handling Waitlists & Deferrals 

If you’re waitlisted or deferred, decide if you want to stay in the running. If so, follow up with a letter of continued interest, updating admissions on recent achievements and reaffirming your enthusiasm for the school. Meanwhile, invest time in your accepted schools—you might end up loving them even more.  


4. The Full Bouquet – Choosing the Right School for You 

Once all decisions are in, step back and reflect. What matters most—academic programs, campus culture, financial aid, or something else? Don’t choose a school just because of prestige; pick a place where you’ll thrive.  


Final Thought: Every Flower is Unique 

The “She loves me” game ends differently every time you play— You can’t predict the outcome. Because, like you, each flower is unique and every college is, too. No matter which petals fall, remember: you will bloom wherever you plant strong roots. And like I always say…finding the perfect school is like finding the perfect partner…it makes your heart flutter!


Happy Valentine’s Day!


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As a college advisor and a mom, I understand the mix of emotions that come with the college application process. After months of hard work, research, and endless revisions, it's a relief to finally hit Submit! But what comes next can be even more difficult – waiting for those acceptance letters. It's easy to fall into the trap of obsession, but here are some tips to help you navigate this anxious period wisely.


1. Take a Breath:

First and foremost, take a deep breath. Sending out those college applications was a HUGE accomplishment, and you should be proud of your hard work. It's crucial to acknowledge this milestone and allow yourself to relax a bit.


2. Distract Yourself:

While waiting for responses, it's essential to keep your mind occupied with other activities. Dive into hobbies, engage in volunteer work, or immerse yourself in a good book. This not only prevents obsession but also enriches your personal growth.


3. Maintain a Balanced Perspective:

Remember that college admission decisions are not a reflection of your worth as a person or your potential for success. (Or yours - Mom and Dad!) A rejection or deferral is not the end of the world. Keep your options open and maintain a balanced perspective on the process.


4. Stay Informed:

Stay informed about various application timelines and decision release dates for the colleges you applied to. Follow admissions offices on social media and check college websites. Having a clear idea of when to expect responses can help reduce anxiety so you don't check portals 100 times a day.


5. Focus on Self-Care:

Self-care is crucial. Ensure you are getting enough rest, eating well, and exercising regularly. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being will help you manage stress and anxiety. Mental health is your #1 priority!


6. Avoid Comparisons:

Avoid comparing yourself to others. Each student's journey is unique, and everyone has their own path to success. What matters most is finding the right fit for you!


7. Trust the Process:

The college admission process is a complex one, and it's not always predictable. Trust that the admissions officers are reviewing your application thoroughly and making the best decisions for their institution.


8. Be Patient:

Patience is key during this time. The waiting game can be challenging, but remember that the responses will come when they are ready. There's NOTHING you can do to rush the process. (So don't email your admissions rep every day to say Hi!)



As a college advisor and a mom, I know that the college application process is an emotional rollercoaster for both students AND parents. (Sometimes worse for the parents!) But remember, once those applications are sent out, you've done all you can, and it's time to let go and let the process unfold. Fill your waiting time with meaningful activities and maintain a healthy perspective. Surround yourself with loved ones and positive vibes.


In the end, no matter the outcome, you are on your way to an exciting college journey!



College Marni


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Writer's picture: Julianna LevineJulianna Levine

Updated: Sep 29, 2022

As the weather turns brisk and college football is in full swing it is now a great time to plan some campus visits! While the one silver lining of the pandemic was an increase of amazing virtual information sessions from colleges there is nothing like experiencing a school in person. Whether you visit somewhere near or far there are always things to look out for on campus. Always immerse yourself the best you can when you visit. That means an info session, a campus tour and asking questions! Can you sit in on a class or speak with a professor? Can you chat with a current student? Eat in the dining hall? Attend a game? I've given tons of tips on this topic on recent podcasts. Check them out at College Scoops https://collegescoops.com/episode-138-creating-a-balanced-college-list/ and The New Old You https://open.spotify.com/episode/444AmefCheG6ymGSVbcFzE?si=93b3ff70d08d4baf.

I have also created a handy checklist attached where you can take notes so that when you develop your final college list and write those essays you will know (and remember) exactly why you want to attend the schools you've decided to apply to! Please feel free to share it with friends and family!

You can copy this link to print, too!! file:///C:/Users/almac/Downloads/Minimalist%20Business%20Order%20Form%20(2).pdf

HAVE FUN and GO 'U'!!!


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