Handling rejection is never easy. As a matter of fact, it can be pretty devastating unless you prepare yourself ahead of time. Many students apply to a variety of schools. Some shoot for the stars while also applying to realistic colleges they would also be happy at; ones that are in-line with their abilities.

This month, the majority of college decisions will arrive home. While there might be jubilant celebration for admittance to an institution, there also might be disappointment. The college application process is a time of transition and growth, and rejection may be part of the process.

If you receive a rejection letter there are several ways to work through the disappointment.

• Read the rejection letter carefully to make sure you have actually been completely rejected.
• React however you feel. Talk to someone you trust who will listen to your feelings. Everyone has dealt with rejection some time in their life.
• Don’t take it personally. Colleges may have had many similar applicants with limited number of seats to fill.
• Reappraise the situation and decide how to problem solve this issue by seeking feedback on your application from the guidance counselors or college admissions office itself. Understand how you can improve on your application should you apply in the future.
• If you email or call the admissions office, ask if they have an appeal process. If so, follow through on their suggestions and to see if they will reconsider your admissions status. If the appeal process doesn’t work, that’s okay too.
• Check out if you can be admitted on a summer probationary basis.
• Rejection isn’t fatal— you can appeal, postpone, reapply, or transfer.
• Remind yourself you are a worthy candidate for many colleges and you do have excellent qualifications for college.
• Avoid the temptation to stew in anger or wallow in sadness. Visit the colleges where you have been accepted; develop a new plan, and put a positive spin on the experience.
• Remember, it is not the end of the world. Students rebound and often console each other in these situations. Sometimes it is a blessing in disguise and there are many paths down the road to success.
• Look six months down the road…in September you will be moving into a dorm, meeting your roommate, wearing new school gear, and promising your parents you will have contact with them at least once a week.

Tip for parents—young adults are relatively new to this and will follow your lead on how to handle disappointments. Be excited about the schools who said “Yes!”