Election Aftermath: What Students Can Do

Kids Protest at Columbus Circle in NYC. Credit: Sari Rosenberg

No matter what your political opinions, there is a palpable sadness in the air. The bigotry of the presidential campaign has made immigrants, minorities, women, and other vulnerable communities feel especially scared and unsafe right now. So what can you do?

Protest. Tweet. Vent. Hug your friends. Show strangers compassion. Write letters to congressmen. Get involved in local politics (there's another election in 2018 for Congress). Raise money for causes you care about. Volunteer for causes you care about. Stand up to racist bullies. Protect those who need it most. Don't lose hope. Don't give up.

Just because you are young doesn't mean you don't count or have influence. Your generation is what gives the rest of us hope.  

Why am I writing about this, here, for an admissions blog?

You are America's future. Never forget that. If you're still writing or revising your essay, use this election to fuel your fire. Show admissions counselors all over the country that our future is bright because of you—because you are strong, compassionate & inclusive.

Every college wants someone who will be engaged in their community. If you've never cared about politics, it's ok to start now. Sometimes, it just takes just one match to light up an entire room. Don't fake it, obviously. Be sincere. If relevant, tell admissions officers how you will fight for civil rights, how you will stand up to cruelty, and how you will make this country safe again.