great schools that aren't ivies?

Tarhunt
Fri, 07 Jul 2006 17:44:00 +0000

OK, your class ranking is top 5%, you’re taking a difficult schedule, your GPA is quite good, and your ACT score is a bit below what the most selective schools would like to see. That means that you’re a good “catch” for a number of schools that are a bit below the most selective tier.

I really don’t know much about GLBT friendliness at various schools. That’s something you’ll have to look into, yourself. I suspect, however, that you haven’t been overly happy with open-mindedness towards GLBT people in Arkansas, and I suspect you will not find many GLBT-friendly schools in the old Confederacy (though I think you could certainly find some schools where the culture is indifferent instead of hostile).

So, looking outside the South for the time being, I have some suggestions for you.

NYU might be just right, but it is known for having inadequate financial aid, and that will not do for you. Still, it might be worth applying. Financial aid packages can vary substantially from one person to another.

Other colleges to consider that are fairly close matches (especially if you improve the ACT score):

Dickinson
Gettysburg
Skidmore
Union College
Bard (a bit of a stretch at this point)
Lafayette College
Trinity College (CT)
Macalester (a stretch)
Wellesley (a huge stretch)
Marlboro
Sarah Lawrence
Hampshire College

That’s just a partial list, but should give you a start.

PS – I have a very good friend who grew up lesbian in Fayetteville, AK in the 60s and 70s. She didn’t enjoy the experience.