If you think you will only get into 1/8, you need to change up your list so that you have some good choices!
The more you know about each school the better you can short list colleges that are a good fit for you, and in turn the better you can focus your ‘why us’ essays. This is especially true for LACs, which have their own distinct cultures… Knowing the difference between the campus cultures is important.
Moreover, most people do best when they are in environments who suit them. Think about the environments in which you are happiest. For example, you apparently liked your experience at Middlebury. Although it was summer (so not the full experience), what did you like about it?
You are planning to spend 4 years with a couple thousand people in a school with its own personality. Do your homework and figure out which ones are the best fit for you.