The process of college admissions is a rollercoaster of emotions. Students experience stress, anxiety, depression, excitement, and even grief during the process. The several different outcomes students face can truly affect their mental health in ways many are not aware of. 

An anonymous senior here at Cathedral says college admissions are “Horrifying, your future is in the hands of an admissions committee.” Just like this senior, many others are experiencing the unsettling feeling of not knowing where their future lies. 

Every student has their heart and mind set on that ONE school. After interviewing a few anonymous seniors, they all have expressed that they took every possible advanced class, committed to several extracurriculars and carved out time to find the help they needed if they were struggling. Most seniors devote themselves to getting into their dream school and when reading that rejection letter, their mental health takes a major toll. 

This year alone many schools’ acceptance rate have become slimmer and this year’s process has been the most intense it’s ever been. According to Forbes, the total volume of students returning to Common App rose by 65%. With the process becoming more intensified, so is the pressure put on students.

During the admissions process, students are grappling with several other stresses in their lives. According to the CDC, 77% of senior students suffer from mental health struggles. The copious amounts of pressure can weigh on a student, but there are ways to cope. 

After receiving one rejection letter, it is difficult for students to focus on the success and acceptance from other colleges. If you are struggling, keep in mind that you shouldn’t take anything personal, celebrate your other successes and realize you will always end up where you need to be. Remember college admissions don’t define you or your future.