College Stressful?

Why is getting into a college or university so stressful these days?

My daughter is graduating High School in the top of her class. During her four years of High School she had a high 90 average, had decent SAT scores and yet, trying to get into college has been very stressful!

When I was in High School, I applied to one college – Hunter College. I wanted to live in NYC and knew I couldn’t ever afford NYU, so why apply? At first I went to Hunter during the day and worked at night in a local retail shop earning some extra cash to afford food and rent. After the first year, I took courses at night and worked full time at laboratory until I landed my first public relations job toward the end of my Junior year.

When I got home from work today, my daughter came running toward me. “Look at this,” she said and handed me a folder that said “You’re In!” It was her first acceptance letter to college. She got into Ithaca College with a partial scholarship!

“Wow, this is so cool. I’m so proud of you!” I said as I flipped through the brochure.

One down and 11 more to go. And then once they all come in, we need to visit each of them to make a decision, I thought to myself. Now the fun really begins!