An Open Letter to Applicants for the Class of 2018,
I can’t believe I just typed that. It sounds really far away doesn’t? 2018. That’s eons from now…or so you think. Just four small years ago, 2014 sounded pretty remote too. And now, here I am, a college senior and 2014 is right around the corner.
First, a congratulations is in order for submitting your first round of early applications, yay! You have now made it to the other side of…well, more applications and waiting. Fear not young collegiates, your dorm days and friendship craze is fast approaching.
Last week, I was talking to a friend in the class of 2017 (still far away, right??) and she shared with me a beautiful story about how her brother compiled a list of the best advice for coming to Harvard. I was inspired and I started thinking about what I would tell my little brother as he prepares to arrive on some new campus that will soon become his new home. And so, aspiring class of 2018, take these words for what they are, a reflection of my experience and wishes for all the best in one of the craziest, most turbulent, most rewarding times of your life.
- Enjoy the journey; life is about journeys, not destinations. In twenty years you may not remember the grade you got on your paper but you will remember the hours you spent power-writing it in the dining hall with your roommate.Goals are wonderful, ambition is fabulous, but make sure that you are taking time along the way to appreciate the ride.So many people get lost in “The End” but there’s a whole story to be read and written before you get there.
- The more you put into something, the more you will get out of it. College is really good at telling you that the ideal situation is a maximum reward with a minimal input.This is not the case.Because they are so pressed for time in college, students often try to wing assignments at the last minute or fudge projects and extracurriculars for the sake of doing more.It is important to remember that oftentimes, more is less.It’s the things you labor over and spend hours investing in that pay off the most in the end.
- Treat obstacles as growing experiences and character tests. Obstacles don’t go away, they only get harder in college.But each one brings out a new side of you and a new skill set, a new appreciation and a new character trait.The harder you’re tested the more your amazing personality has the chance to shine through so take the rainy days in stride and show the world what you’re made of.
- Never forget who you are. When an environment is so full of stimulating people that challenge your mindsets and beliefs and opinions, it’s easy to get lost in trying to change and grow.But there’s nothing like coming home to family and friends who were there when you first learned to drive and who saw you knock over that Christmas tree when you were eight.Those things are priceless and they only become more so as time goes on.
- Everyone in college can use more love. Shoutout to Kristen! We’re not saying to answer or initiate a booty call. What we mean by this is that college can oftentimes be lonely and directionless, disheartening and challenging. The more love you give to your friends, the more you will get back. So take the time out of your midterm studying and pick up some snacks for your roommate. Bring that classmate a cup of tea when they’re sick. The best relationships come from putting others first and there’s no better time to do that than when your dorm, class, and campus, becomes your family.
So, Class of 2018, good luck. Enjoy the process and enjoy the wait. Enjoy the acceptances and rejections and decisions. And remember that no matter where you go, they are so, so lucky to have you.
Best of luck,
A slightly nostalgic senior