Today is the day! Students and parents alike are already on pins and needles (and will be on their portal all day).
USC
82,027 applications this year
42K applied EA
They accepted 3,500 students EA — yielding an 8.3% EA admit rate — and expect to take between 5,000 and 5,400 more from the regular decision and deferred EA pools.
This means there will be a elation for approx 5000 but for TENS of thousands (a very big number), there will be disappointment and angst that is a natural part of the process. We will see both today. There are those that will get in, but don’t get the merit or financial aid they need, so won’t be able to attend. For some, the acceptance process is a clear ride, but for others (most), it is full of emotional ups and downs. So prepare for this by knowing you (or your student) are going to college somewhere, and whether USC or not, new friends and experiences await. Wherever it is, commit to bring your own special magic. You determine your future, don’t let disappointment from any college define it.
If things don’t go your way, it’s ok (and expected) to be sad, or be pissed and even jealous, but by the time a day to two passes - or set a deadline of by the end of the weekend - commit to shake it off best you can and commit to love the one that loves you in the end. Get your head to the place, “if they don’t want me, I don’t want them.” Just know your special place is out there - because you will make it special. Rise up over rejection. Do great things to make it USC’s loss.
For years, I have always been encouraged by how supportive the posters are on the USC pages here (compared to some other sites). If you are struggling in this process, please talk to someone - friends, family, supportive SM sites, even a random site like this - find people to support you. They are out there, and we are here.
Please don’t let the numbers game of college admissions define you. Don’t let any school make you think you are not awesome. Especially a college that simply doesn’t have enough space for your awesomeness. It’s not you, it’s them. Regardless of the outcome, FIGHT ON!