This conversation feels more like a reflection of a competitive event than a balanced and well-considered search for the right fit. And speaking as a parent, I more than understand the spirit of the moment - the feeling that my child must get into the “best” school possible, or they might never reach their potential.
The maxim “what you actually do once you get to college is so much more important than where you go to college” isn’t just a expression of consolation for those whose dream schools remained elusive, it’s empirically substantiated. All of the colleges and universities mentioned in this thread are incredible places of higher learning where students can go on to achieve all of their aspirations.
That said, what school can match Middlebury’s combination of a world class education in one of the prettiest places on earth? Sign me up! -Dang, too late…by 35 years…