There are few things as difficult as dealing with rejection, whether its from someone we love, or for a job application, or even an application to grad school.  The thing that is hardest to remember when we’re in that low moment is that usually when a rejection comes it’s because that thing we thought we wanted - that person, that job, that opportunity - is not where our future lies.  

The rejection, even when it hurts, is a gift.  Because it gives us an opportunity to stop and consider: Is this what I really want?  Is this the best way to achieve what I really want?  Is there another path to my goal?  Because in the end rejection is just course correction.  It tests your mettle.  And maybe it sends you on a different path.  A better path.  

And if there’s one thing I know about you, it’s that you’re strong, smart, and determined. The amount of lives you touch around here is just staggering.  You are truly amazing.  And that’s probably hard for an admissions person to see when they’re looking at a couple pieces of paper.  They don’t know you like we know you.  And it’s a shame that they won’t get that opportunity now.

But this one decision is not a statement of your value.  It’s just course correction.  Because there is no doubt in my mind that your path is going somewhere great.  I think that’s obvious to everyone who knows you.  You just have to figure out where you’re going next.