@jym626 Yes it was
I am pleasantly surprised by the warmth and sensitivity of the responses on this thread. College admissions is hyped up all too much by everyone but the student-- and it creates an especially tender psychic wound leading up to decisions.
@babz123 , I think we all create an idealized image of the most prestigious schools, and everyone expects us to gain admission to one as a status symbol. The fact of the matter is that the Ivies have toilets just like any other reputable university. What I found out, after completing my freshman year at a not-top-ten school, is that the experience you gain and the fun you have in college is worth way more than the name. Don’t worry about disappointing anyone but yourself.
The lesson you can learn from this, however, is that grades aren’t everything. There’s a kid in my school who studies day in and day out in the library, aiming for a hundred in every class. He once complained that he got a 98% on a test in a class we had together. At the end of the semester, he and I got the same grade-- an A. The college admission officer’s aversion to academic perfection continues on while and after you are in college. Focus on doing well in school of course, but don’t obsess over it, because the people you meet and bond with and the things you do outside the classroom will help you much more in life.
Your first post shows that you know this now, so props to you for being self-aware!! I learned this lesson the hard way too. Either way, studying hard in high school is a great foundation for whatever you do in college. Some people do not have the grit to study in high school because it is boring or unpleasant, and later in life, they do not have the grit to do what they want to do career wise. You’ve proved to yourself that you can work your butt off, and that is one of the most important qualities a person can have.
I have not read the other replies to your post, but I think you have the beginning of your speech written already. Being able to share your journey and reaching younger classmen/women may save them from the same mistakes.
Being a committed high achieving student is obviously not a mistake, but not enjoying the journey along the way is a mistake. I have a son that is hyper-focused like you are, but he was my 3rd s I was able to get him away from his books, and show him other opportunities out there.
Being the valedictorian is something to be very proud of, and in your journey you learned something of greater value.
I know you’re disappointed in your admittance results, but pick a great school (I’m sure there will plenty that will admit you), and enjoy college…find activities that you love and dive into those they way you did your HS academics.
You have the study skills to be successful in college so your grades should be fine. Enjoy college, and look back at those ivies for grad school.
Congratulations !