Why You’ll Never Make It to Your Dream College

Fear of rejection and over-advice stop students from applying to their dream colleges. Here’s why it’s time to break free and take the chance!

We All Have That Dream College… But Why Don’t Even Try

Everyone’s got this idea of a “dream college,” right? A place we can totally see ourselves thriving, having those once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and setting ourselves up for a future we actually want. But here’s the weird part—most of us never even apply! And it’s not because we’re lazy or we don’t care. Nah, it’s something deeper, something like fear, or maybe the endless chatter around us telling us what we “should” do. If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Let’s dig into what’s really holding us back and why it’s high time to snap out of it.

Rejected Before We Even Try

You know what stops a lot of people? They’re rejected in their minds way before the college even has a chance to say “no.” The fear of rejection hits so hard, they don’t even bother filling out the application. It’s like, “Why bother? They’re just gonna reject me anyway.” Famous psychologist Dr. Orion Taraban mentions, “Fear of failure is powerful enough to halt any action—it convinces students to live in a comfort zone that’s a prison.” And honestly, he’s spot on.

So many students let their mind create rejection scenarios—“I’m not good enough,” “My grades aren’t enough,” or “People like me don’t get into Ivy Leagues.” But seriously, isn’t that just mental road-blocking? The first step to breaking out of this is realizing that none of it is real until you actually try. It’s about doing the work first, putting in that application, and letting the college make the call.

Everyone’s an Expert Nowadays

Ever noticed how everyone around you suddenly becomes an “expert” counselor when college applications roll around? From random friends to family members, everyone’s dishing out advice on where to apply, how to write that essay, or even why you shouldn’t “waste” time on top-tier schools. Ironically, most of these self-proclaimed experts have zero experience actually applying to or getting into a prestigious college.

Ivy League alumna and educationalist Dr. Clara White says, “Real advice is rare, especially from people who have never achieved the goals you’re aspiring to.” It’s hilarious if you think about it—taking advice from people who’ve never been where you want to go. So next time you hear free advice, ask yourself, “Has this person actually done what I want to do?” If the answer’s no, maybe it’s time to let that advice float right out the window.

The Myth of the Perfect Applicant

One of the biggest reasons people fear applying to dream colleges is this idea of the perfect applicant. We’re all taught that only these super-genius, well-rounded, 4.0-GPA, scholarship-winning, Olympic athletes get accepted. So, regular people? Nope, not a chance—at least, that’s what we’re told.

Colleges aren’t looking for robots. They want real people who are passionate, driven, and willing to bring something unique to the table. As admissions counselor Sarah Hamilton explains, “Colleges aren’t looking for perfection. They’re looking for authenticity.” And if you’re not being yourself in your application, what’s even the point? Give it your best shot, with your unique strengths, flaws, and passions. That’s what stands out.

The Trap of Education Counsellors

Nowadays, there are a ton of “education counselors” who make a living advising students on their college applications. But here’s a tough truth—many of them have never actually attended the colleges they talk about. Sure, they might know the process or have some tips for your essay, but how much of that is firsthand?

Advice from someone who’s been to an Ivy League or a similar school? That’s gold. But they’re not exactly lining up to give free advice, are they? Most of the genuine advice you’ll find is from people who are too busy with their own lives to play counselor. So don’t let “education counselors” get you down with their list of reasons you might not make it. Be selective about whose words you trust.

Focus on the Effort, Not the Outcome

The one thing that truly matters in all this? It’s the effort you put in, not the result. Colleges see hundreds of thousands of applications each year, and yes, they make tough choices. But the only way you have any shot is by putting your best foot forward and not obsessing over what might happen.

As psychologist Dr. Jordan Geller puts it, “Anxiety stems from focusing on results, which we can’t control. Focus on what you can control: your efforts.” So, try to let go of the outcome and make peace with the fact that you gave it everything you had. This shift alone can do wonders for your confidence.

Not Everyone Gets In (And That’s Fine)

Let’s be real for a second—no, not everyone gets into their dream college. And that’s totally okay! College is just one step in your life. It’s not the end of the world if a certain door doesn’t open. There are so many paths to success, and you’re the one who decides what “success” even means to you.

Dream colleges are amazing, sure, but there are hundreds of other amazing schools where you can thrive. The key is to get over the mindset that one rejection will determine your worth. College is just one piece of the puzzle.

Don’t Let the Fear Win

So, why do students hesitate to even try for their dream schools? It’s fear—fear of rejection, of judgment, of not being “enough.” But think about it, is that really a good reason to give up on a dream? Take the chance. Block out the “experts” and “counselors” who claim to know best, and just go for it. The worst thing that can happen? You’ll learn something about yourself. The best? You might actually make it.