Tomorrow is May 1, college decision day for seniors. If you haven't yet signed your name and committed to a school where you'll spend the next four years, tomorrow is the last day to do it. So…
1. Remember to send your "Statement of Intent to Register" and your deposit to your chosen college. And when you do, make sure you re-read your letter of admission.
2. Return the paperwork to your other colleges indicating that you will not be attending. It's a nice thing to do. It makes the colleges' jobs easier knowing who doesn't plan on enrolling, and there are a lot of anxious students on waiting lists right now who can be admitted when colleges are certain of their enrollment numbers.
3. If you're notifying a college in writing that you will not be attending, there's no reason to feel pressure to write a long explanation. You're not breaking up with a boyfriend or girlfriend–you don't need to come up with reasons. Just be brief, but nice. Something like this would be fine…
"I am writing to inform you that after discussing my college options with my family, I've decided to attend the University of Michigan. Thank you so much for considering me, and have a great year with your new freshman class."
4. This is a good time to review all of the material you've received from your chosen college. Is there a housing application? Do you need to submit final transcripts? Is there an orientation you can attend this summer? I know it can be daunting to sort through all the material you receive, but it's worth it if it means you won't miss something important.
5. You should celebrate with your friends and/or family tomorrow. Tomorrow will be one of those rare "Once in a lifetime" days. There will never, ever be another day in your life when you officially decide where to spend four years of college. Treat it like a big day, because it is. Even if the school where you're heading wasn't at the top of your list, you still have every reason to be excited. C'mon. Live a little. You know where you're going to college next fall.