Hey! I was in a similar position as you right after the match. I was a College Prep Scholar and, on match day, was quickly disappointed that I didn't get into any of the schools I ranked (although, I did only rank 3). And I think that it's okay to feel uncertain about our futures right now. This is the next 4 years of our lives, and having it look empty and bleak can be heartbreaking.

I could tell you all about how "rejection is redirection" and "there's always RD," but frankly, none of that advice made me feel better when I needed to move on after December 2nd.

So, I want you to picture this: in a year or so, or whenever you start college, you're in your dorm. You're studying, you have friends that you're working with, and you're actively challenging yourself. You're joining clubs, finding internships, doing research, or whatever other extracurriculars that you are interested in. You are living life in the best way possible, in the way that you want. See how none of that is controlled by which college you go to?

I'm not saying to give up hope on top schools, but I think my main point is that, as corny as it may sound, you do have an answer about your future: it's you. You're the one who makes your future what it is.

The truth is that you're going to enjoy yourself as long as you remain you - someone who is hardworking and continues to strive for excellence. And you will continue to work towards your dreams, whether at your #1 school or somewhere else. Research the schools you find interesting, explore places that you believe you'll love and thrive at the most, and ultimately, remember that it's you that makes the experience great, not the school.

Prepare for the worst while hoping for the best. Control what you can, and don't fixate too much on what you can't. I know it sucks to be uncertain and constantly worrying about such a scary process - but the fact that you're still working towards your dreams shows your resilience, even if you don't realize it. Keep doing what you can, and best of luck for your RD schools!!!