I still remember back in the day when I was rejected by my dream college (it was realistic for me), I cried non stop for 24 hours, did not come out of my room for 7 days, declared to my parents that I don’t want to study any further.
I use to fantasize studying there and enjoying the campus from the beginning of my high school, and I put in all the effort I could.
Anyhow, I ended up going to my second choice, had a GREAT time, had a great career, made life long friends, and don’t regret a bit.
But, not going to lie, that rejection—stings to this day! I still shed a tear or two when I think of the heartbreak I went through.
Hug your kid. Tell him you are with him no matter what. That him you will support whatever he decides. Tell him you can imagine what he’s going through. Give him time. Let him come out of this at his own pace—he will, I promise you.