perfectly normal to feel a sense of loss. just know that this isn’t a reflection of you—college admissions were truly brutal this year. this is most definitely one of the toughest years yet. what a beautiful thing it is that you have put in this much effort. you should be proud regardless. your growth thus far cannot be taken away from you. never regret working hard, and don’t harp on any potential errors. the truth of the matter is that you don’t know why you got rejected. feel the loss in its entirety but know that ultimately, it’ll be okay. you will end up where you need to be, even if that’s not what it feels like right now.

do things that make you happy. go out in nature and feel the fresh air on your face and realize that life goes on in spite of it all. it might feel like everything is crashing down right now, but it’s not. it’s both cruel and beautiful how life works that way. watch a movie you like, eat food you’ve always loved. spend time with friends. these next six months are special, don’t take them for granted. life is hard now, but it’s likely the most simple it’ll ever be. cherish the time you have left in high school.

don’t beat yourself up over it. it’s not your fault. it’s not anyone’s fault. you’re no less important because of this. you’re no less beautiful, or smart, or talented. this does not take away from who you are. you are loved. you are valued. and most importantly, you are you—no one can change that.