<p>Wow, I'm applying to/I've been interested in many of the schools to which you are applying. We have very similar stats too. Fah-reaky. Perhaps I'm just protecting my own Ego, but I think you have a decent chance at all of those schools, especially Vassar, Tufts, and I'd say Wesleyan. The whole legacy thing can play a huge part in being accepted, so thats great for you! You mentioned you're a legacy at several schools.. which one(s) besides Columbia? </p>
<p>And yeah, I hate this focus on a hook. Yes, it does ensure an interesting freshman class, but kids who haven't excavated the oldest known remains of homosapiens, or discovered a new comet, or translated Harry Potter into Ancient Egyptian, can be just as interesting! Oh well. Once we're able to clone nonliving objects, all of the Ivy's need to be cloned so we can make room for all of the worthy kids applying to them.</p>