Why didn't I get in?

banditmag
Sat, 29 Mar 2008 20:08:40 +0000

Yes, you all need to remember that nearly everyone that applies to Gtown has the same stats. We all like to think our kids are the most special but, in reality, there are thousands upon thousands of you out there with stellar GPA’s, ourageously high standardized test scores and so many ECs that it makes one dizzy. Believe it or not, the disappointment fades over time. I was heartbroken for my d at the time although I was never sure Gtown was the right place for her. It is hard on parents as well, we tell our kids to work hard and h they will be able to “go anywhere you want” - not true. As I stated, many factors affect decisions. We live in a suburb of Chicago. The entire region, less the city, has phenomonal schools and fairly well off families. Many, many, many graduates from this area apply to top schools which doesn’t help. The school is not going to take 3,000 kids from the Chicago area. Now, if you are from Rhode Island, or Mississippi and have great stats your competition just became less. Top schools want geographic diversity as well as international students. I am amazed at the stories of some of the students at my d’s college. One young man has lived in six countries, another told me he is a “citizen of nowhere” since he has lived so many places. Another walked over two miles on dirt roads to school (sounds like my parents and has the hope of the entire family on her shoulders. Is my daughter special in light of all of those students - no. Her upbringing was typical middle class America. She is special to me though ;)

With all of that being said my daughter has a new outlook. She is at a top LAC and doing well academically. Everytime I bring up getting involved is some new EC she says “I am not making this high school mom, I am not getting back on that wheel.” I always counter with “what about grad/law school?” Her reponse is “there are tons of famous, successful peoples who have attended schools you never heard of, she then lists ten or so for my edification.” I would never tell her this but she is right, she should enjoy this time of her life, college is tough enough. She gained some perspective through the admissions process and it is a good thing.