But I heard that...

As our meetings with you get underway, it has been great to hear about all of the exciting summer adventures you’ve had! Rebuilding homes in New Orleans, traveling to France to experience the culture, internships at area museums, research opportunities at NIH, lifeguarding or coaching the swim team at your local pool, enjoying vacation time with family and friends, and much more! However, when the updates turn to talk of The. College. List., there is a phrase that I have come to dread. It goes something like this: “But I heard that no one was accepted to that school last year because they don’t like Visitation students.” or “But I heard that everyone should apply at the early action deadline because if you wait until regular decision, all the spots will be taken.” Or “But I heard that someone last year got accepted into the school of their dreams because they were the next Beethoven of the cowbells – so should I start taking lessons?” No, you should not start taking lessons!

There is a lot of mythology, urban lore, and just plain misinformation out there about the college process. It’s like playing Operator. Do you remember that game from when you were a kid? One person whispers a random phrase to the person next to them and then it travels down the line until “I love the TV show Glee!” becomes “Olly olly oxen free!” or something like that - you see what I’m saying. People are worried that they are missing some crucial piece of information. Everyone is hoping for a little known strategy or secret weapon that will give them a leg up in the process. But you don’t need any gimmicks; you are smart, talented, well rounded students who will listen to your college counselor’s advice (right?) and work to create that well balanced list with a variety of options so that you will have great choices this spring.

So, please try to drown out the frenetic noise of the media, neighbors, and even well-meaning friends - no matter how well intentioned their advice is - it ultimately just ratchets up the stress. The college process is different for everyone – and lucky for you – Team Fennessey is at the ready to help address your questions and concerns in a way that makes the most sense for you as an individual. We are also ready for the new season of Glee, but that’s a different story!

Published by KMH