Validation is an amazing feeling. It boosts an ego like never before, makes your adrenaline pump and showers you in dopamine. However, it is not necessary. The stupidest thing I did this year was pressure myself to be perfect when I did not need to be. Leaving high school and not going straight to a 4- year college is not the end of the world. In fact it is very logical and can be financially the best decision made. Go to college to get your education and degree not to get clout. Learn to be frugal and to enjoy the things life has set for you. Sometimes that means going to a community college for 2 years to receive the same credits anywhere else for free and then transfer to a different college.
If you do not have the GPA, or test scores, or resume, do not be discouraged. A magical and mystical concept of transferring exists and is not talked about enough in high schools. You get a second chance. High school students are not meant to be wise beyond their years. It is 100% normal to not have thought of college up until now, and to not be fully prepared. You are not the same person at 18 as you were at 14. If you ruined your GPA at 14 when you only cared about video games and hanging with friends, do not stress. Go to a community college for a year, build up a nice and pretty college GPA then apply to transfer. They will only look at the courses you took and the college GPA you have, ignoring all high school requirements. Most schools accept transfers with a 3.0GPA, some higher schools 3.5, GPA.
Furthermore, if you are not financially able to pay a college you got into or didn’t receive the scholarships/ financial aid you hoped for but was offered a program like Osceola Prospers, then take it. Do not go into pointless student loans and stress yourself out. This isn’t a competition and take your time. Everyone has their own pace and trust me no one is looking at you. Everyone is way too busy trying to meet their own goals to care about how slow or fast you are meeting yours. Set yourself up for success and don’t buy into the need for validation.
Growing up isn’t easy. It is ok to cry when you turn 18, I sure did. It is ok to panic, I sure did. It is ok to not know what major you want, you will figure everything out. Take your time and do not rush your way into college. Additionally, I highly recommend to plan to not get into your top choice. apply to many colleges and remember that there are more than 1 good programs. Consider universities based on graduation rates, financial aid, location, and tuition costs. It is crucial to be logical at this pivotal time in your life.
