Step 1: Stay Calm

The foremost step is to remain composed. It’s easy to spiral into negative thoughts, but remember, this is not the end of your journey. Allow yourself some time to relax and regain a sense of rationality. From this calmer state, you can start to outline your next moves and rethink your strategy.

Step 2: Limit Discussions About University

For the time being, try to refrain from discussing university-related topics with friends. This will help you avoid unnecessary comparisons that might exacerbate your feelings. It’s crucial to maintain clarity of thought during this period.

Step 3: Explore Your Options

Once you've created a more peaceful mindset (which can be challenging without an action plan), begin outlining your alternatives. Do you have other university offers? If not, consider taking a gap year to gain additional work and life experience before reapplying. Here are some exciting possibilities for that year off:

• Work and Travel: Split your year between employment and travel. Where have you always wanted to visit?
• Start a Side Hustle: If you’ve dreamed of creating art or launching a small business, this is your moment!
• Enroll in a Course: Learn new skills that align with your long-term aspirations.
• Try a New Sport: Explore something adventurous like rollerblading—just remember to stay safe!
• Volunteer Abroad: Numerous projects worldwide offer volunteer opportunities that can fit a tighter budget. Websites like Workaway can help, but ensure you research thoroughly.
• Internship: Boost your resume with an internship, providing you with valuable skills that will be beneficial when applying for future roles.

Photo by Felix Rostig on Unsplash

Step 4: Create a Pro-Con List

A pro-con list can be invaluable at this stage. This method allows you to detach from the intense emotions you might be feeling and focus on making informed decisions. After listing your options, evaluate which choices excite you the most while considering your financial and time constraints.

Step 5: Take Action

Once you have a clearer idea of your preferred plan, it’s time to act. Keep in mind that this rejection is merely a small setback. While it may feel overwhelming right now, this could be a chance for personal growth. Perhaps you've been feeling burnt out and needed a break to regroup and explore new interests. Many individuals opt for a gap year and discover new passions or even realize that their initial course choice wasn't the right fit. Taking time off can also give you a head start on reading and preparing for your future studies.