@theaussie, my advice for reversing your deferred status at Tulane is to emphasize your commitment to community service, which is an integral part of the experience at Tulane. The school has really come on strong to support the city in its rebuild and its complete overhaul of the schools. (Tulane’s past President headed the commission.) The other things that Tulane looks for are (i) a strong international focus, with solid achievements in foreign languages and a thirst for study abroad, and (ii) an interdisciplinary focus to your studies – that is, a well grounded, logical and demonstrated interest in studying two disparate fields and connecting them to your future in a way that makes sense. Tulane’s new President, Michael Fitts, has really come on strong in developing this interdisciplinary approach. All that being said, there are wonderful things to say about all the schools on your very impressive list, and I’m sure you’re doing all the research. (Oh and, for the record, Georgia Tech and Tulane have identical ACT mid-50% ranges – both are 30-33!) Best of luck to you!