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Yes, the packet is run-of-the-mill. I would not interpret the brochure/marketing literature as “Harvard has a specific interest in me.” The same mailing is sent out to many, many other high school students.
I’d recommend not listening to other people about where you should or should not apply to college. Check out the school on your own and evaluate whether the school is a good match for you. Unless the community members are alumni/ae of Harvard (or the other schools to which they are encouraging you to apply), they are basing their recommendations exclusively on the reputations of the respective institutions. In other words, they are making uninformed recommendations. (To a certain extent, the same can be said about the parents of current/past Harvard students who did not attend Harvard themselves.)</p>
<p>The fact that community members (who may or may not know you well) are encouraging you to apply to highly selective universities is a testament to how “smart” they think you are. Take it as a compliment…and leave it at that.</p>
<p>Apply to several schools with a range of selectivity. Have fun with the process. Don’t stress out about it. Enjoy college wherever you end up and embrace the freedom you have to pursue your academic/extracurricular interests. Be happy. :)</p>