my dad is crazy....

compmom
Sat, 20 Dec 2008 08:29:27 +0000

I think that there is a lot of appeal in your profile, including the fact that you work to help your mom out. So go ahead and apply.

But your Dad needs to get a little more educated about colleges. I think too many people think of Harvard when they are proud of their kids…it is such a brand name.

So, you, and especially, he, should not expect you to get in. The best way to avoid disappointment is to apply in a sort of “what the heck” way, but have low expectations. With a 7% acceptance rate, everyone should have that attitude- a lot of it is sort of random!

If your parents don’t know a whole lot about other colleges, you can get books at the library or bookstore like “Cool Colleges” or “Colleges that Change Lives” or “Beyond the Ivies” etc. You can also research online. Do you have a guidance counselor who can be helpful?

There are so many good schools out there, where you can be happy. Harvard is sometimes a focus for people because they think it really says something when you get in, but after that, it is really just another school. A great school, but only one among many.

So, don’t stress about getting in, tell your Dad not to stress, and think about other options that are definitely possible, affordable, and fulfilling.