For many, it’s easy to fall in love with the reach schools. For some, and it seems like you might be one of them, it can be harder to find schools that are likely or extremely likely admits that you would be happy to attend. That’s where we need to focus now.
Think about why you originally applied to some of the schools. For instance, in one of your earlier posts you wrote:
Has George Mason’s relationship with the Smithsonian ended? Start thinking about the good things that are available at your acceptances. Look at special interest dorms, faculty you’d like to study under or do research with, clubs you’d like to join, special study abroad opportunities, etc. Do this for all the colleges that have accepted you.
Previously you were planning on applying to Ithaca. What was it about the school that made you change your mind?
Did you look into some of the other SUNY campuses, like Environmental Science & Forestry (which allows students to take classes at neighboring Syracuse), Brockport, or Oswego?
Have you looked into Stockton in NJ? I’ve heard good things about its marine bio opportunities. Since you’re open to the west coast, what about Cal State: Monterey Bay? The aquarium there is amazing and it’s a great place for marine studies. Cal Poly: Humboldt would be another option to consider.