Hello, students. This is Alex, a manager at Paschar.
Some of you may have received better results than expected in the early decision round, while others may have been disappointed. Congratulations to those who received good news!
I genuinely hope you all enjoy a fulfilling four-year college experience, learning and growing at your chosen institutions.
For those who did not get the outcome you dreamed of, remember that while effort is essential in early decision, there is also a significant element of luck involved.
Today, I want to share some advice from my own experience. Four years ago, I was in the same position as you—receiving a deferral in early decision and later being accepted through regular decision. I am now attending Harvard Law School, and I’d like to pass on some words of encouragement.
When I heard the news that I had been deferred from the college I most wanted to attend, I felt as if my world was collapsing. I spent countless hours wondering what I was lacking or whether I was simply overqualified for that school. However, in March of the following year, I was accepted by one of my dream colleges.
All the hardships I faced in December were washed away, and I ended up having an incredibly meaningful four years in college. The school that eventually accepted me turned out to be a perfect fit for who I am.
A school that accepts you is likely one that suits your personality. Even if it isn’t among the top-ranked schools in early decision, there is often little difference in faculty quality, course rigor, or alumni networks.
If you are determined, there are plenty of opportunities to achieve your goals. All the U.S. colleges you apply to are excellent institutions. While a slight difference in ranking might seem significant from an applicant’s perspective, as one of my high school philosophy teachers once said, “In reality, among the top 50 U.S. News colleges, there isn’t a huge difference in faculty, course quality, or resources.”
So, even if you didn’t get it to your early decision school, don’t be too disheartened—keep giving your best effort until the end. In March, maintain a positive mindset with the thought, “There’s a college out there that’s a perfect match for me ☺️,” and work diligently on your regular decision applications. Good news will follow—just as it did for me.
Lastly, here’s one more tip for those of you finalizing your regular decision applications:
One Application, One Story
A friend of mine, who majored in English at Columbia and is now at Harvard Law School, once advised me that an application consists of multiple parts—such as the activities list, essays, and honors—and if these parts seem disconnected, the overall narrative can feel disjointed. While it’s great to showcase a variety of activities, consider what overall story you want your classes, activities, and essays to tell. This holistic approach will elevate the quality of your application.
Let’s set aside our worries and finish our regular decision applications with a positive mindset! Paschar sincerely cheers you on ♥
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