<p>This is a triple feel good post, Step: the thanks, the success story, and the paying-it-forward to future college applicants. I especially liked the equanimity with which you received your admissions decisions and aid awards, handling the occasional disappointment and feeling true gratitude for the great surprises.</p>
<p>Many, many students would do well to follow your process in selecting schools. I hope you’ll cross-post this on the thread where you started - so many kids go there when planning their admissions process and they will really benefit from your insights.</p>
<p>And kudos to sybbie :). Those of us who are “long-timers” do tend to adopt a kid or two along the way here on cc. It’s wonderful to help them and wonderful to hear back. So glad you found your way to Step.</p>