@shermizzle exactly 3 years ago my S had a similar experience. He was deferred EA then rejected from UVA. His ACT was a 34, GPA 4.0 unweighted, tons of leadership and extracurricular and he was a legacy. We all were stunned, angry, bitter. He moved onto his second choice of Wake Forest and is completely in love with the school. Admitted to the Business School on his first try, immersed in the campus community in terms of service, participation and academics. He said he cannot imagine now going to school anywhere else. Your grandmother is correct. Your S will find his happy place and be a successful productive member of society. I wish you both the best!