<p>Take a look at Eckerd college in Florida. The campus is right on the Gulf of Mexico, they have a sailing team, and being in Florida you can sail all year round. Laid back atmosphere, lots of water sports, and good solid academics. It is not out in the boonies - it's in St. Petersburg. It would be a solid safe match for you. (See: Sailing</a> News - Eckerd College)</p>
<p>Another Florida school, already mentioned above, is Rollins College. It's located near Orlando on a large lake, and they have a new boating facility and a varsity sailing team. Really beautiful campus, and solid academics. Sail all year round, instead of just a few months a year. (see: Sailing</a> -- <a href="http://www.RollinsSports.com%5B/url%5D">www.RollinsSports.com</a>)</p>
<p>Another possibility to consider is Villanova. Again, they have a sailing team, and the vibe is similar to Boston College. It's located right outside of Philadelphia, so not too far from home. </p>
<p>Wheaton in Ma., which was mentioned above, is a good possibility. Sailing is a club sport there, I believe, but you would have a better shot there than at Conn College.</p>
<p>Washington College and St. Mary's College of Maryland are both great schools, but not right for someone who wants easy access to a more urban area. They are both rather isolated.</p>
<p>However, you have PLENTY of time to finalize your list, so don't worry too much about trimming down the list just yet, despite what your college counselor is saying. Try to visit as many schools as possible, think about what you want out of both your academic and social experiences in college, and you will figure things out by October. With your goal of twelve schools, I'd aim for one SUPER-reach (i.e., a real lottery based on your academic record), 2-3 realistic reaches (schools that are just out of reach, but not in the lottery category), 5 matches, and three safe bets. But, be sure that the safe bets really are safe, and that you like them enough to attend if you end up with only them.</p>
<p>Finally, if one school is your dream school, consider applying ED. Legacy status for borderline candidates typically works best under ED. However, neither ED or Legacy status guarantees admission for anyone.</p>