Sleepless nights. Anxiety. Dread. So it's that time of year again when anxious high school seniors hear back from the colleges to which they have applied. If you got accepted to your dream college, congratulations and you need not read any further. However, if you fall into that much larger category of students who discovered a letter or email with an introduction that goes something like "Thank you for your interest in our school; however, we regret to inform you....." I know it's disappointing and it might feel like a curtain is slowing coming down on your world. I feel your pain, but as trite as it sounds, don't worry, everything works out. First off, the fact that you didn't get into a college or colleges is NOT a reflection on who you are or your value as person. There are so many factors that go into a college's decision whether to accept someone or not. For example, a university may need a trumpet player in its band, so someone who fits the bill might get accepted, while an equally capable person who plays the saxophone may not. Same goes for sports, majors etc.. So stop looking around at who got into this college or that one. It's a waste of time and pointless exercise. The admission process doesn't make much sense and like many things in life, it isn't fair. There might also be an element of something darker going on as we've seen with the recent college admissions scandal. So don't waste your time trying to figure it out. Give yourself a few days to feel disappointed, then pick yourself up and move on. Those who succeed don't dwell on disappointment, they search for opportunity and you DO have opportunities. If you didn't get into your dream college, what other colleges accepted you and which offers the best education for your future goals? Remember, in most cases, your effort and tenacity in college and after graduation determine your future career success. If you didn't get into any colleges, that OK too. Many students find themselves in this situation and it's not the end of the world. In fact, it might be the best thing for you. I know what you're thinking. How can not getting into any colleges be a good thing? Well, I taught a student a few years back who struggled in high school academically and found himself rejected by all the colleges to which he applied. He asked for my advice and I recommended he attend Pasadena Community College for two years, work hard in school and then transfer to a university. He agreed, and after two years of diligent effort, he transferred to U.C.L.A., went on to law school and now works at one of the top law firms in the country. So, stop worrying, stay positive and look for your next opportunity. It's right there in front of you!