It’s that infamous time of year when colleges begin to inform students of their early application status. Seniors are rushing out of the parking lot at 1:51 every afternoon to check their mailboxes for news of admission. We’re all hoping for the best, but what if you don’t get in? How awkward will it be to hear that dreaded question, “Have you heard back from schools yet?” What can you possibly say in reply to defer more questions? Here are some suggestions…….

• If      you’re not ready to face the music, lying is always an option. “I never      ended up applying there!” “I haven’t heard yet.” “I got      deferred.” Maybe your peers will forget about your application come      April.
• Make      a joke. “I withdrew my application after I visited and discovered how      awful their mac and cheese is!” At least it will take some of the sting      off.
• The      truth hurts. Tell it, but immediately move the conversation onto the      positive aspects of the schools you did get into. If you act excited about      other places, people are less likely to feel bad for you, and you might      start feeling less bad about yourself. Fake it ’til you make it!
• “I      know I’ll get in somewhere.” Forever rejected? For all you students      who know what being forever alone is like, you can add this to your list      of well-used phrases, which should also include, “The right person is      out there somewhere, we just haven’t met yet.”

Are you a student wondering if your friends have gotten into college yet? Be sensitive! Avoid asking about certain colleges; instead, ask, “So when do you start hearing back from your schools?” If they want to avoid the subject, it
will be obvious and you can act accordingly.

• If      they’ve been accepted, congratulations! You don’t have to deal with any of      this awkwardness!
• If      they’re dealing with rejection, be very enthusiastic about the places they      DID get into.
• If      the tears start flowing, console your pal with some kind words, humor, or      a coffee after school.

It’s a tough time of year and college decisions are intimidating. Whatever decisions seniors receive, they should know that next year they will probably all be happy wherever they end u