Updated with current information for 2023
Spring semester can be a time of changes. If you’re a student at a community college or other college hoping to enter OU, you may have been waitlisted or deferred. So, what does that mean?
Generally, when you apply for entrance into a college you expect to be accepted or rejected. Deferral can mean several things, but usually it means the college hasn’t finished reviewing your file and is deferring a decision on your admittance. Sometimes the college wants to have more information to make its decision, such as reviewing your grades from your senior year or test scores.
Waitlist means the college has finished reviewing your information and has put you on a waitlist for admission. You may or may not be admitted. You can do some research and find out if the particular college is likely to admit students on the waitlist or not; regardless, do not flood the admissions office with letters of recommendation to try to sway them. This will not work in your favor.
Once you find you’re on a waitlist, be sure to apply to other colleges. It’s never wise to depend on being admitted once you’re on a waitlist. Here’s a helpful Twitter thread to help demystify some of the process:
The only admission decision harder to understand than being denied is being waitlisted. I want to offer some context about waitlists. pic.twitter.com/5RqkbDkK1F
— Andy Borst (@AndyBorstUGA) February 23, 2022
Staying Positive
While being deferred or waitlisted may seem like a setback, remember that it is not a rejection. In fact, it can be an opportunity for you to reevaluate your goals, reassess your application, and show your commitment to the college you’ve applied to. The important thing is to maintain a positive attitude throughout this period. Remind yourself that there are many paths to success, and sometimes, the path we end up on is even better than the one we initially envisioned.
Whether you’ve been deferred or waitlisted, the college is interested in your potential. This is the time to keep your grades up and continue with your extracurricular activities. Demonstrating continued academic growth and commitment can increase your chances of being accepted.
Utilize This Time Wisely
Being waitlisted or deferred gives you extra time to improve your application. Maybe there is a project you can complete or an award you could win that could enhance your application. If the college allows it, you might want to write a letter to express your continued interest in the school and provide updates about your achievements.
Consider Your Other Options
While it’s essential to remain hopeful about your first choice, it’s also a good idea to consider other colleges. Start researching alternative options and apply if you haven’t already done so. There’s a chance you might come across a school that is an even better fit for you.
Plan for the Future
This is also a great time to plan for your college life. Imagine your future in college: Where will you live? Who will be your roommates? What student organizations will you join? These are exciting times and planning for them can help you stay positive.
Maintain Balance in Your Life
While you wait for the college’s final decision, make sure to take care of yourself. Continue to engage in activities you love, spend time with friends and family, and remember to relax. Maintaining balance in your life is essential not just now, but also for your future college life.
While being deferred or waitlisted can initially feel disappointing, remember, it’s not the end of the world. Many students have turned this situation into a positive experience. With a proactive approach, a positive attitude, and careful planning, you too can navigate this period successfully. Remember, the goal is not just to get into a good college but to have a fulfilling and enriching college experience. And that journey begins well before you set foot on campus.
Choosing Your Future Home: The Importance of Location
Now, while waiting for your college acceptance can be a stressful time, this is also the perfect opportunity to think about your next big decision – where to live. Will it be an apartment or a house? Close to campus or farther away in a quieter neighborhood? Will you prioritize a house with a view, or do you prefer being right in the middle of the action in Uptown, on Court Street? There are plenty of options when it comes to student rentals in Athens.
Your choice of living arrangement in college can significantly influence your overall experience. While there is on-campus housing, moving off-campus into an apartment or house can offer a different sense of freedom and responsibility. Here, we’ll look at some key considerations to keep in mind while finding the perfect student rental.
Living Arrangements
Firstly, think about what kind of living arrangement you want. Athens offers a variety of apartments and houses to accommodate different needs. Whether you’re looking for a studio for some solitude or a six-bedroom house to share with friends, you have plenty of choices.
If you value privacy and independence, a studio or one-bedroom apartment might be a good fit for you. However, if you enjoy having company and splitting costs, then a two, three, four, or even six-bedroom house or apartment could be a better choice. You can view a comprehensive list of rental options here.
Next, you should consider the location. Do you want an apartment close to campus, or are you looking for a house with a view? If you prefer a lively environment, you might want to check out the properties in Uptown Athens, specifically those near Court Street.
On the other hand, if you’re someone who prefers tranquility and nature, you might want to look at rental options further from the main hustle and bustle. There are rentals located near beautiful parks and offering views of the Hocking River, which could provide a serene environment for studying and relaxing.
Different apartments and houses come with different amenities and features. Some might offer on-site laundry facilities, while others might have a private yard or balcony. Certain properties might even offer extras like a fitness center, pool, or dedicated parking. Consider what amenities are important to you before making your choice.
Safety is another critical factor when deciding where to live. It’s essential to check out the neighborhood during the day and night, understand the security measures in place at the property, and investigate crime statistics in the area.
Lastly, your budget will significantly influence your choice. The cost of rentals can vary greatly, depending on the location, size, and amenities of the property. You’ll need to factor in the cost of utilities, internet, and possibly renters’ insurance. Consider all these factors while determining what you can afford.
How You Should Proceed After Being Deferred or Waitlisted
While you wait for your college acceptance letter, taking the time to research your living arrangements can save you from future stress. Remember, your living environment can significantly impact your college experience, so make your choice wisely.
Whether you’re looking for a house with a view, a studio apartment, or a six-bedroom house close to campus, you’ll find diverse options in Athens. And remember, the perfect place doesn’t only mean the best apartment or house; it also means the best home for your specific needs and lifestyle.
Happy house hunting!