<p>You seem to be concerned about geography.You must bear in mind that even if you are in the same state you will probably never see each other anyway as undergrads hardly ever leave campus and are always superbusy.Be realistic- Why are you limiting yourself atthis point?just apply to amherst and as many others(regardless of location) as possible and see what happens.For english lit I would seriously look at Oberlin,they have a strong program in that,and give good aid too.In the end its really about YOU getting a good education,whether in illinois or massachusetts or wherever else,youll soon realise its not that serious.</p>