<p>I think that where this topic bogs down is when it gets to an all or nothing propositions. There is a vast middle ground between MIT, Mudd, CalTech and South Timbuktu Community College followed by Directional State U.</p>
<p>Hi OP:</p>
<p>Hope you’re getting the answers you’re looking for. My S1 was a very driven kid in h.s. and as a result, had a fantastic GPA. We looked at very top schools for him, including several Ivy schools. He pushed himself very hard in high school and decided he did not want a pressure cooker situation for college. He is now at a college (Tufts) which is still a top school, but not with the same reputation as being academically intense as other schools. The kids there are very collaborative, not competetive.
He is thrilled with his decision. He works hard but has time for many other things. He feels as if there are many kids there intellectually his equal.</p>
<p>The bottom line is that as other posters have said, let your child be the guide.</p>