To add a little more context, D24 goes to a high school of 3000 plus kids w/4 HS in District and tons of private schools in the area. Socially, this feels small and clique-ish to her. So, schools under ~5000 kids where she’s in the upper quartile academically and socialization is mostly Greek life would not be a good fit. On the other extreme, ASU (a safety) could be a good fit but maybe only in the Honors College or a specialty program. Smaller, engaged classes & supportive mentors will be important beyond GenEd.
Academically, D24 is at the highest rigor level, which definitely stretches her. (Multiple classmates heading to ivies and elites each year). She would much rather risk a B in the toughest class to be around the challenge, and does not crack under the pressure like some of the students who feel the need for perfection at all costs. Boredom is her worst enemy and we hope she won’t under-match due to unweighted GPA. (Grade deflation is a thing in her program. Kids who get 5s on APs might get a C from the teacher. She is academically 1-2 years ahead of previously mentioned relative who graduated with straight As this year). This is partly why we are looking for holistic review, where I think she will shine. Thanks all!