Yep, even the Taft School has an impressive matriculation list while I didn’t see one on Choate’s website. However, focusing on arts strength at Hotchkiss is great.
I guess SSAT is the great equalizer and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds will be given some slack due to fewer resources to study.
You have an impressive background. Staying at the local public or private school won’t be a failure at all.