You've done it all: filled out countless Common App applications, completed that tedious ol' FAFSA, crammed for the SAT and dreamed over and over again about the "perfect" college for you. But, it's all over now; you've been accepted to college!
But even though all of that is in the past now, your life has only just begun. And until you're on campus, breathing in that *expensive* air, there's still so much more you can do. Here are five things I'd personally do, now that college decisions--and most importantly, acceptances--are in.
1. Do a happy dance!
YOU'VE MADE IT THIS FAR! You survived the hell that is college applications, and came out of it triumphant!. So, celebrate! Don't be afraid to brag about where you're going to college, and don't be bashful when your parents brag about you. You've earned it.
2. Spend more time with your friends.
It's a sad reality, but it's true--by the year's end, you may never see some of the most familiar of faces for a very long time. Don't be afraid to talk about the subject, and in fact, make the most of it. Plan get-togethers, go out to the movies and make memories. Even if you're usually an introvert, make an effort to go to these gatherings. Some of the most memorable of memories are made during senior year; you and your friends won't regret it.
3. Visit the colleges you were accepted to.
Chances are you applied to more than one college, and thus, you have to make a choice between them. Sometimes, the choice is obvious, but more often than not, the choice is often a painful one to make; every college has its own tempting benefits for each of our individual interests.
If you're in this situation, I suggest doing a college visit. Sometimes, when you're actually on campus, you can make a better decision--especially since you're going to spend the next four years of your life there. This way, you can see how you vibe with it, and explore how you'd fit in socially, emotionally, and, most importantly, academically. Believe me, this advice is key. It's definitely helped influence my choice--though I haven't made one just yet.
4. Finish up high school!
Yes, I know...you got into college, so who cares about school now, amirite? Well, YOU should!
If you started off strong, it never hurts to finish strong, now does it? Plus, some schools and scholarships do take into account final transcripts, so maybe your studies just might be important, after all. I know it's tough, but you can do it! It will be worth it in the end.
5. And finally, enjoy your senior year!
We often forget this important fact with the seriousness of college applications. You only get one senior year, so live it to the fullest! Talk to some new people, and forgive old enemies. Reconnect with old friends, and try new things. For example, I joined my school's Science Olympiad high school team just for fun, and that's exactly what I had!
Just because we're going to be adults soon, doesn't mean we are ones quite yet, so take advantage of that.
So have fun, guys! It's been a long year--good or bad, well, our memories will decide for us. When you throw your caps up into the air on graduation day, remember why.