Whether it's been from a school, a job, a crush, a sport's team, or a play — you name it — we've all been rejected at some point. I've been through my fair share of rejections, and here's what I've learned after being rejected from college and work.
1. Don't take it personally
It's really easy to become angry or upset because of a rejection. When my dream colleges didn't accept me, I developed a huge grudge. But you have to realize that there is so. much. competition. Because of this, there has to be so much rejection. Sometimes you really did deserve it — but there were only so many spots, and there was nothing more you could have done.
This is especially true when finding jobs — most people find work through connections. If you don't have that, it is so much harder to find a job even if you're completely qualified.
College applications rely heavily on test scores. Some schools won't even look at the other parts of your application if your test scores are not up to par. This is why it's so important to remember: Other people's quick judgments about you are not a reflection of who you are.
Rejection does not mean that you aren't JUST as capable (or even more so) as those who were accepted or got the job.
2. Don't let it get you down
First of all, you should know that you're not alone in this struggle. I know it seems like everyone around you is successful, but it's not true. I'm still looking for summer job after countless rejections. (When I say countless, I mean it. I seriously don't know how many internships and jobs I have applied for). To be honest, it stings. Especially when I know I'm qualified. I often wonder what I did wrong in my interviews and how other applicants were better.
I've spent a while being sad about it. But now I am trying to make the most of the free time I've had this summer: I'm making as much money as I can babysitting, I'm still applying to jobs, and I'm building up a portfolio. This leads me to my next point…
3. Don't stop trying
It's okay to be sad for a bit, but then go back in with confidence! You may have been rejected for a reason, or for none at all. In either case, don't give up!
Work harder, make yourself stand out, and show them what you are capable of (which is a lot).
Thankfully, I didn't let my grudge stop me from working hard and applying to my dream school again, UNC. I may be a couple of years late, but I am just as capable as those students who got it right out of high school. I'm not any less of a Tarheel because I transferred.
Don't let these rejections define you or slow you down. You are not any less because of it!
