<p>I want to stress this: it is a difficult process but it is not impossible. You just need to create a list with caution and avoid schools like Pitzer and CMC but add schools like Reed and Bennington and Vassar. You also need to write compelling essays (this sounds much easier than it actually is) and to make sure your application does not list ‘empty’ qualifications such as “I volunteered for 5 hours at the farm last summer, went to X conference and listened to the person speak, etc.” Those aren’t the best examples but you get my point. Playing games with ED might help you, too. </p>
<p>I will be honest: given what I knew about the competition, I was very surprised by my acceptances. The rate of success for me was about 1 school per 4-5 schools. However, even if I hadn’t gotten into any school, I had safety schools that I would have been glad to attend, one in the US (Earlham) and one in Australia (USydney). (on a side note, note that Earlham gives more aid than is listed on the website. They offer merit aid in addition to the half tuition that they offer in need). I also recommend that you check out ALL women’s colleges.</p>
<p>You definitely need a merit-aid safety or a school you could definitely afford. This could be in America or abroad but a school you would be glad to attend.</p>