<p>Hi Andreaaaa,
I am so sorry about Grinnell. You are such a neat, capable girl. The admissions this year have been puzzling. Among talented students such as yourself, there is no way of knowing why you didn’t get in first round. Like the other parents, I strongly suggest you go with Whitman. It is a great school and has some of the same features as Grinnell. If grad school is your goal, Whitman is a good path. You may settle in beautifully at Whitman and be very content. If you do not get into Whitman then, perhaps, do a gap year. However, rather than work, I would suggest that you do Americorp or some other national service program. Not only would it simply be a worthwhile way to spend your time, schools like Grinnell are really big on public service and the experience would certainly make you an even better candidate. Take care.</p>