The fourth and final season of Never Have I Ever on Netflix chronicles the journey of Devi Vishwakumar and her friends as they navigate the challenges of high school. Set in California, Devi, a senior, aspires to attend Princeton University and decides to apply Single Choice Early Action (EA), a significant step towards her dream. The remaining episodes of the season shed light on valuable lessons about what to do and, perhaps more importantly, what not to do during the college admissions process. If you haven't watched the show and want to avoid major plot spoilers, please be cautious while reading this blog post, but here are some college admissions lessons we can take away from Never Have I Ever:
Lesson 1: Don’t apply Early Decision (ED) to a college You’re Unsure Of
In the fall of their senior year, Devi and a select group of her classmates go on a college visit trip to the East Coast, accompanied by their school’s college counselor (Ms. Warner) and a teacher. During the trip, one of Devi’s friends, Ben, visits Columbia University. While there, he spends time with several current students, and it’s clear that Ben feels like he doesn’t fit in. Yet, because he already applied to Columbia ED, he will be forced to go there if he’s admitted.
Applying Early Decision can be advantageous in some cases, as it demonstrates a high level of interest and commitment to a particular school. However, it's crucial to only apply ED if you have thoroughly researched and are genuinely passionate about attending that specific institution.
If you have any doubts or uncertainties about a college, it's better to opt for other application options, such as Regular Decision or Early Action, which provide more flexibility and allow you to explore multiple offers before making a final decision.
By not applying Early Decision to a college you're unsure of, you can maintain your options and make a more informed choice based on your personal preferences, academic goals, and financial considerations.
Lesson 2: Don’t decide where to apply/not apply based on where your friends are applying
Devi’s best friend, Fabiola, is an excellent student and wants to study engineering. Yet when both her mother and Ms. Warner suggest she consider Princeton because of its outstanding engineering program, she insists she can’t apply there because it’s where Devi wants to go. Ultimately, Fabiola decides to apply to Princeton Early Action but lies to Devi about doing so. Then, when Devi learns that Fabiola not only applied EA to Princeton but was admitted (while Devi was deferred), the girls get into a huge fight.
It's essential to remember that everyone has unique goals, preferences, and academic paths. While it's natural to seek advice from friends and share experiences, basing your own college choices solely on where your friends are applying or not applying may lead to regret or a mismatched college experience.
Take the time to thoroughly research and consider various factors, such as academic programs, campus culture, location, resources, and financial aid opportunities. Reflect on your own passions, career goals, and personal fit with each institution. Discuss your options with trusted mentors, family members, and college counselors who can provide guidance tailored to your individual needs and aspirations.
Ultimately, choosing where to apply should be a thoughtful and introspective process, guided by your own values and ambitions. While it's wonderful to have friends who can support and share in the college application journey, it's important to make decisions that align with your own unique path and future goals.
Lesson 3: Don’t apply to a college early and not prepare any other applications in the meantime
Devi is so certain that she’ll be admitted to Princeton that she doesn’t apply to any other colleges or even work on any other applications before Princeton releases its Early Action decisions. When she gets deferred at Princeton, she has to spend her winter break completing applications for other colleges.
Applying early to college can have its advantages, such as demonstrating your commitment and potentially receiving an early decision. However, it's crucial not to put all your eggs in one basket and neglect other application options.
The college admissions process is highly competitive and unpredictable. It's wise to have a well-rounded list of colleges that align with your interests and goals. By preparing multiple applications, you ensure that you have backup options in case your early application doesn't yield the desired outcome or if circumstances change.
By diversifying your college applications and not solely relying on an early application, you give yourself more flexibility and increase your chances of receiving multiple offers from different institutions. This approach allows you to make a well-informed decision based on various factors, such as financial aid packages, program offerings, and campus culture.
Lesson 4: Don’t apply only to highly selective colleges
After Devi is deferred at Princeton, she ignores the advice of her mom and Ms. Warner and applies only to the other Ivy League colleges. She is then denied from all of them except for Princeton, where she is waitlisted. Devi talks with Ms. Warner, her friends, and her family about the possibility of not going to college in the fall and having to apply again. On her last day of high school, she is admitted to Princeton from the waitlist. But the outcome could have been far worse (and probably would have been if this wasn’t a TV show).
While it's natural to strive for excellence and consider renowned colleges, it's essential not to limit your options exclusively to highly selective institutions. There are numerous factors beyond name recognition and selectivity that contribute to a fulfilling college experience.
Consider a range of colleges that align with your academic interests, values, and career goals. Explore schools that may offer unique programs, specialized resources, or a supportive campus community. Look beyond rankings and prestige, and focus on finding colleges that provide the right academic environment, extracurricular opportunities, and a supportive network.
Applying to a mix of reach, match, and safety schools allows you to have a well-rounded list of options and increases your chances of receiving multiple offers. Keep in mind that admission to highly selective colleges is incredibly competitive, with limited spots available. By diversifying your college applications, you ensure that you have a range of choices and the opportunity to find the best fit for your personal and academic growth.
Lesson 5: Don’t let your grades slip at the end of senior year
Devi’s friend, Ben, has been an overachiever all his life, but as graduation approaches, he starts to feel burned out. Another student, Trent, tells Ben that since he got in early to Columbia, he shouldn’t worry about his second-semester grades. Ben replies that if his grades slip, Columbia will rescind his admission offer, but Trent insists that’s a myth, so Ben slacks off. When Ms. Warner calls Ben into her office and says he’s at risk of failing his classes and losing his spot at Columbia, he has to scramble to catch up.
It's crucial to remember that the grades you earn in your final year of high school still matter and can have an impact on college admissions decisions, scholarships, and future opportunities. Slacking off or allowing your grades to slip during this crucial period can undermine the hard work you've put in throughout your academic journey.
Maintaining strong academic performance until the very end demonstrates your commitment, work ethic, and ability to handle the demands of college-level coursework. It also reflects your overall dedication to personal growth and achieving your goals.
To avoid letting your grades slip during the final months of senior year, it's essential to stay organized, manage your time effectively, and prioritize your responsibilities. Create a study schedule, break down tasks into manageable chunks, and seek support from teachers, peers, or tutors if needed. Stay motivated by reminding yourself of the long-term benefits of maintaining your academic performance.
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