Take a Breather
Yello lab head out of car widow

You should not panic about things that are ultimately outside of your control. You’ve done your best, after all! Now is finally the time to resume your normal life, away from the stress of college applications.

That Said, Do Stay on Top of College Communications
Sausage dog looks at laptop

You will want to make a note of which email address you submitted your college application(s) under. In fact, you will want to check that inbox on a regular basis. NYU may get in touch with you for a variety of reasons, with useful information or important updates for example. You do not want to miss out on these crucial emails.

On the other hand, try to resist refreshing your inbox every five minutes to see if we’ve made you an offer! We rarely send decisions outside of advertised deadlines.

Thank All the People Who Helped You on Your Application Journey
Dog holding thank you card

If you have not already done so, you should thank all the people who supported you and your college application next, including family members, friends, high school counselors, or mentors. Don’t forget the nice NYU admissions staff member who also took the time to answer all your questions!

Have Fun! It’s Allowed
dog and his ball

Most importantly—get your mind off things, relax, and find joy in the world around you. There is more to life than the college application.

Make a TV date with your favorite show. Organize an online chat with friends who live across the country. Play your favorite video game with a sibling. Knit a wooly hat for your beloved grandma. Take a nap with your dog (cats are also approved). Read a good book. Go play ball in the park.

Just do whatever floats your boat! You’ll feel so much better afterwards.

Finally, do Remember That Things Happen for a Reason
Border collie in lavender field

On decision day, maybe your “I got into NYUUUUUUU!” all-purple, dancing TikTok video will become viral. Or maybe, the decision you receive will not be the one you expected.

In the end, things do indeed happen for a reason. If not NYU, there’s another university out there that is a perfect fit for you, where you will thrive and be happy. And if it is NYU, well then—see you around campus soon!

Lisa is a Senior Assistant Director of Admissions for NYU Abu Dhabi and the Global Admissions Team, based in the London office.
Born and raised in France, Lisa also lived in Denmark and spent a couple of years in leafy upstate New York.  She is a dedicated gardener, a keen traveler to India and Japan, and loves watching the tennis at Wimbledon. She now spends her free time playing with her little rescue terrier dog, Cooper.