What I Learned from College Admissions

by Julia Weede
Vollmer Public Relations New York City

Recently Sue Schellenbarger, a columnist for the Wall Street Journal, retook the SAT on a dare from her high-school aged son. She wrote about the eye-opening experience , and how it gave her a new appreciation for him and for the rigors that kids endure as they prepare for their next step in life (“I Took the SAT Again After 41 Years,” May 27, 2009). She said the stress instantly sent her “back into a tailspin of adolescent regression and procrastination.”

My first reaction? Not for a million bucks. Funny how the whole college application experience follows you for the rest of your life.

But it got me thinking. There is probably not an adult alive who would willingly relive that first college search. But there are some pretty great life and career lessons you can take from it even if you have left the halls of your alma mater.

I live in an education household. My husband is the “enrollment guy” at Butler University, and I spent years in college admissions. So I posed the question during a long car ride. If selecting the right college is such a big deal, what are some lasting truths you can learn from the whole process?

Here’s what we came up with:

• You can do this. Whether it is finding a college, getting a first mortgage, or launching a brand, you’re rarely the first to face an overwhelming process. Find someone who knows the path. Jump in and ask questions.
• Hard work matters. It shows.
• So does following your passion. Choosing a major, career or business opportunity based solely on money, or someone else’s expectations, usually backfires.
• Grammar matters. Texting friends is fun, but important decisions are made based on how well you communicate big ideas. Pay attention to the craft of communicating.
• Be open to opportunities. Focus is good, but don't walk past the road less traveled. You don’t have to go where everyone else is going. If you are open to unexpected options, you'll be surprised by life.
• Be nice. It matters and people notice.
• Fit is important. If you are facing a difficult choice and quality is comparable, go with the people you like.
• Don't let cost be the only deciding factor. You usually get what you pay for. Go for the best you can afford to give you what you need most.
• Give back. If you went to school on a scholarship, it’s probably because someone donated the money. When you can, throw the rope back to the next generation.
• Breathe. Even if you are afraid of making a decision, remember your future includes great things you can’t imagine and options that haven’t been invented yet.

So just do the very best you can today. It’ll all work out. Really!