As you haven’t shared a budget yet, this list obviously does not take this into account. But for a student with an interest in forming political connections, going to school in a state or federal capital are really important to think about. I’ve categorized these by I (a person who is not in college admissions) think your chances might be at these colleges. And there are other colleges in state capitals (U. of Montana, Louisiana State, Cal State Sacramento, etc) but until we know more about what you want, this is just an exercise in showing you what is possible.
Also, I would not recommend applying to this many schools. Just find at least two schools where you’re extremely likely to get in, that your family is willing and able to pay for without loans, and that you would be happy to attend. Then you can add additional schools in any more selective categories that you want, if you want. But find the schools that you’re a lock for that you would be happy to attend first.
Extremely Likely (80-99+%)
- Virginia Commonwealth
- U. of Hartford (CT)
- U. of Minnesota
- U. of Nebraska
- Agnes Scott (GA) – women’s college in a walkable part of the Atlanta area
- U. of South Carolina – with a very well-reputed honors college
- Meredith (NC) – women’s college
Likely (60-79%)
- U. of Wisconsin
- Ohio State
- Providence (RI)
- Fordham (NY) – not in a state capital, but very close proximity to the U.N.
- American (D.C.) – but this is one where they definitely want to see demonstrated interest…if they think they’re just a safety for the other D.C. schools you would likely receive a rejection
Toss-Up (40-59%)
- Trinity (CT)
- George Washington (D.C.)
Low Probability (20-39%)
- U. of Richmond (VA)
Lower Probability (less than 20%)
- Barnard (NY)
- Georgetown (D.C.)
- Harvard (MA) – a 4% admissions rate w/your ACT at the 25th percentile
- Wellesley (MA) – a women’s college with an 18% admissions rate w/your ACT above the 50th percentile