If you are a smart student (all the top classes) with a’s and b’s, on a varsity sport (dedicate lots and lots of time, in two clubs, and have a 3.7 gpa, can you get into a school on par with like Middlebury? For these kind of schools, do you have to be extremely above ordinary? I don’t really have anything special about me, is that okay?
Yes you can. While there are certainly kids who are above ordinary, do realize that most applicants (and quite a few acceptances) are normal kids. Just remember to follow your passions, keep your grades high, and write good essays, and you’ll have a chance at most good schools in the country.
As a sophomore it is too early to focus on a few selective schools. See how you do this year and see how your standardized tests go. If your HS has Naviance you can use that tool to get an idea of the scores needed to be a strong candidate for Middlebury (or other schools you are considering) from your HS.