| Instead of starting the list with the top USNews colleges, look at a few fairly obvious groups:
- in state schools where you may receive preferential admission, lower tuition, and special in-state scholarships
- schools with personal ties - legacy connections, well-networked acquaintances, etc. where you may have special access, preferences, inside knowledge, etc.
I don't see a problem with looking at schools with programs noted for strength in your intended major - that helps focus attention a bit. But, the points about choosing a college with multiple options is indeed important. I'd recommend a school like Harvey Mudd only for someone who was really confident that they wouldn't change majors in a year or two.
Once you have a core group of safeties and ballpark schools, then look at your reaches. Too many students focus exclusively on long shot schools, and end up with too few choices. |