Wherever else you apply, BE SURE TO APPLY TO STONY BROOK!
I know, I know, you want to go away, you want to live on campus, you want to challenge yourself, I understand. But Stony Brook is a fantastic school, it is within easy commuting distance for you, and you’re gonna get in. Even if they don’t give you a penny in fin aid, it is your academic and financial safety. Sure, you want to go somewhere else, and maybe you’ll be lucky enough to get a deal somewhere else. But don’t be a fool, and torpedo your best safety. You could wind up driving to community college instead of to Stony Brook.