Off the Couch

An experienced psychotherapist shares thoughts about the therapeutic process, the dynamics of client-therapist interactions, and the thinking behind her therapeutic interventions.

by F. Diane Barth, LCSW

College Letters are In: Uh Oh! I’ve been Accepted!

By F. Diane Barth, L.C.S.W. on April 11, 2010 in Off the Couch

It might seem odd that college acceptance letters sometimes create as much emotional havoc as rejections; but every year at this time, adolescents whose hard work has paid off with an acceptance to the school of their choice suddenly decide they have made a mistake. What can parents do to help them out of this precarious position?

Students' reactions to being accepted to a college

Submitted by Susie Watts on April 15, 2010 - 3:57pm.

As a college consultant, I think you did a good job of explaining how students do not always respond to a college accepting them as we expect them to. Many are thrilled, especially if it is one of their top choices. But others almost take the attitude of the song,"Is that all there is?" I realize too that for many students this is the first big step they have taken out into the world and that can be scary. They are leaving their families and friends of many years and that in itself can cause a fair amount of anxiety. I think it is wise to listen to their concerns, but to reassure them that this is a very exciting time in their lives and help them gain the confidence to feel that they are ready for the college experience. Most importantly, they need to know that their concerns are very common and they're know alone in feeling as they do.

Susie Watts
College Direction
Denver, Colorado

reply
quote

I totally agree!

Submitted by F. Diane Barth, L.C.S.W. on April 16, 2010 - 4:08am.

Hi Susie,
I couldn't agree more! Thanks for posting your comment, which also addresses another part of the equation for young men and women -- they think they're the only ones who feel the way they do!! They look around and everyone else seems to be handling things without angst, and they don't realize that no one looking at them can see their confusion or doubts, either!
Best,
Diane