<p>It would be enlightening to ask an 8th grader, “why (Ivy League college),” then to compare the answers the same child would give as a senior in high school awaiting April 1st. There is no comparison in the depth of knowledge at each point. The “passion” of a 13 year old for “the Ivy League” is not nearly as intense as the passion of an 18 year old who has spent the past year applying to colleges. (This assumes a senior would speak with an adult about the college process at this point.)</p>
<p>SevenDad, I can believe some 13 year olds have their sights set on the Ivy League. Especially if their academic needs are not being met in their current schools, the Ivy League may stand as a placeholder for their ideal academic community. The idea need not come from adults.</p>