Cornell vs. Duke - which is more selective?

monydad
Mon, 06 Sep 2010 19:22:01 +0000

I personally know two kids from one of the highest income areas outside NYC who are attending contract colleges there. Maybe it’s even your school (though I believe their # is above 30). In one case the parents have multiple kids, the economy has adversely affected the dad’s business, he was very relieved that Junior picked ILR (I think). The other case money was no object but the kid happened to want a major that was in one of the contract colleges. In other cases I’m sure, even where it’s not about the money, people apply to a less selective one of the colleges precisely because they have a better chance of admission and it’s a close enough fit. My own son would be in this boat, if he decides to apply. His stats are not strong for CAS, much better chance at one of the contract colleges. He wants to attend college within a reasonable driving distance from home, which is another consideration for many people.

I think you’ll find that multiple colleges are represented in that Naviance data, even in your area, once you go back to school and ask your counselor. It’s certainly true here, though this community is more mixed economically.

Lots of wealthy people have no problem saving some money, and besides there are other reasons to attend them.