<p>Ladies, do not despair.</p>
<p>Last year my D (not an int’l) applied ED. She required a substantial amount of financial aid. She was deferred. She took it as a polite rejection, and immediately sent out applications to other schools. She also wrote a letter acknowledging the deferral, added a few new items since she had turned in her application (awards, etc.). </p>
<p>Amazing offers came pouring in from other schools, including one with a full ride and an offer to spend her first semester in London. Things were looking up for her. She accepted the full ride/London school, and even went to the campus (3000 miles away) to accept it at a special ceremony. </p>
<p>While there shaking the hands of the higher-ups and being treated graciously and generously, an acceptance letter came in the mail from MHC. With an equally appealing package (well, not London, but hey, MHC!).</p>
<p>She was sincerely torn. In the end she pulled out of full ride/London U for MHC, which after all, was her first choice.</p>
<p>Instead of moaning and groaning, get to work (this is a mother speaking). </p>
<p>If you haven’t already, send a follow-up letter to MHC. Include something that maybe you didn’t the first time. It doesn’t have to be a long letter. But it should make a point.</p>
<p>Also get those other applications out, and be sure to include a couple that are sure bets (and that you’d be happy at), just so you start to see that you ARE valuable, and wanted. </p>
<p>I think the hardest part of a deferral and a “rejected” application are the feelings they drum up. Like being last to be picked for a game; or not being asked to a dance or party. So you’re going to have to put those “devastated” feelings aside, and do things that will make you feel successful.</p>
<p>Best to all of you.</p>