Every year, the results season is both exciting and nerve-wracking. After the busy application season, the waiting period feels like an eternity, even after submitting all the application documents. Whether it’s related to future plans or the results themselves, feelings of anxiety are inevitable. At the same time, students need to understand that when faced with bottlenecks, it’s more important to focus on “finding solutions” rather than the problem itself. This is a crucial life skill that will benefit them in college and even in their future careers. So, regardless of the outcome, these days will serve as essential nourishment for personal growth. 

 

At the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), the admissions dean emphasizes that simplifying the application process to reduce the pressure of higher education is an important goal. The university will implement measures to ensure this. In addition to waiving application and registration fees, students can choose non-teachers and non-internship employers to write their recommendation letters. What’s most special is that UPenn introduced an option for applicants to write a thank-you letter as part of the 2024 admissions process. According to the university's research, expressing gratitude helps release positive energy, and admissions officers can use thank-you letters to assess whether students possess this quality. 
 

At this moment, while we wait, we should make the best use of our time to enrich ourselves. The things that have been done and can be done are already set. Parents can also use this time to strengthen their relationship with their children by providing positive guidance. What children need most right now is to relax, not to be constantly anxious about their future. It’s recommended to temporarily set aside discussions about college admissions and instead bond through activities like watching shows, going outdoors, cooking, or playing board games to build deeper trust and emotional connections, thus reducing the anxiety of waiting for the results.
 

When children experience frustration or fear, what parents can do now is listen. This seemingly small act can have a great impact. Often, we just want someone to listen, not necessarily to provide answers. After all, life is long, and many things don't have a standard solution. During the most challenging times that test our patience, if both sides can be good listeners and communicate openly, it’s a good start.
 

Finally, don’t forget to encourage your child appropriately. Share your own experiences, talk about the challenges you faced in school, how you solved problems, and where you found support. Help your child understand that, no matter what happens, they are never alone. 

 

閱讀中文版文章：如何舒緩放榜前的等待焦慮？

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