In the end, they simply need a plan.
If they want to be near family (i.e. Seattle), they need to revise the list and include either UW Bothell or Tacoma or Seattle U. WWU is just a few hours. All would be safe.
Within driving range, Oregon is on their list and safe. Gonzaga a quick flight away.
I don’t get CU, Pitt or Kansas…but that’s just me.
Given the student wants to study sociology or communications, the where isn’t going to matter too match - UW or otherwise.
So no matter the odds of getting into UW, easy and nearby entrants abound and OP simply needs to pick one as a back up.