How to work towards a better chance at really prestigious schools: Harvard, Princeton, MIT?

[thumper1]

Continuing the discussion from College advice, chance me, match me, 4.00 GPA medical hopeful [MD resident, no parent contribution]:

@lov.e

From talking with my parents, I gathered they don’t want to help me pay for college. As a junior, I’m not exactly sure what this means for me (can I even go to college this way?)

@lov.e

how to work towards a better chance at really prestigious schools: harvard, princeton, mit?

Just do the best you can. There is no magic wand that will increase your chances at these reach schools. Apply and see…if you do or don’t get accepted, you will never know why.

@lov.e

pay back loan easier

How much loans will you need for all four years of undergrad?

@lov.e

but beyond the prestige and job outcome i’m hoping i’ll find a school with a good fit for me because i truly like to learn math and science (and of course i’m also excited about the prospect of college)

There are TONS of colleges that fit this description.

From talking with my parents, I gathered they don’t want to help me pay for college. As a junior, I’m not exactly sure what this means for me (can I even go to college this way?)

Is this still the case?