You thought formulating a college list and auditioning at dozens of programs was the hardest part of college auditions? Think again! I truly think the hardest part of this process is after the college auditions have ended – otherwise know as the dreaded waiting period. Some of you may have some lingering auditions, but for the most part, the majority of auditions have concluded.
Over the next few weeks, you are going to be receiving decisions from the performing arts programs you have auditioned for. These will come in waves and at various times. Some will come in the form of snail mail, others by email and some by phone. Most decisions will be released throughout March. You will then be required to make a decision and put down a deposit at a school no later than May 1st.
Knowing May 1st is the official end of the process isn’t too bad, right? Sure, if that was the truth! If you are placed on a waitlist or deferred from an early audition, you may not find out if a spot opens up for you until after May 1st. I’ve had plenty of students who committed to a program full heartedly by May 1st – only to find out in June they were taken off of a waitlist at one of their original dream schools! Of course, there is no obligation to attend the waitlist school – but it certainly can throw you for a loop and leave you re-evaluating your decision.
I don’t need to tell you that this is the most nerve-wracking part of this process. However, I have some tips to help you thrive during the dreaded waiting period!
First, in order to be sure that you actually receive the decisions, be positive that you have all of the required application materials in. You may think you do – only to discover they are holding your decision because your History teacher didn’t send in one of your recommendations. Double check to make sure they have everything they possibly need to send you an offer.
Remind yourself to keep it all in perspective. There will be no’s – I can almost guarantee it! Getting no’s are essential so you can discover the program you are truly meant to be at. Brush off rejections and remind yourself that this is all part of the career you chose and the no’s make the yes’s that much sweeter. And after all, you can only attend one college.
Take time to thank the people who helped you get to this point. Senior year becomes crazy busy (and fun!) during the springtime, so use this downtime as an opportunity to connect with the teachers and guidance counselors who helped you survive the overwhelming college application and audition process!
Keep yourself busy! Compulsively checking your email or stalking the mailman will not speed up the decision from the school. This will only cause you to drive yourself nuts! Fill your time with schools commitments and senior activities. You’ll never be a senior again so don’t forget to have fun with your friends!
But most of all: get excited. The next four years will surely be the best time of your life.
