<p>I too, am a deferree, and feel the same way as you, kjbtx. Columbia was my first choice. But now that I have applied to other colleges, gotten accepted and learned more about those colleges as well, they are around equal footing to Columbia. I knew that when I applied ED, that didn't mean that Columbia was the perfect fit for me, just the one college that was most likely above all others the perfect fit. Now, compared to just a few months ago, I can actually see myself at other colleges. I'm not sure if I would choose them over Columbia if Columbia did accept me later on, but instead of making that decision now I'm going to wait until I have all my acceptances, visit the colleges, compare packages, and then decide. I don't regret applying ED and would probably be very happy if I had been accepted, but I am also excited that now I have a lot of other choices that I would also be very happy to attend.</p>
<p>Like Collegebunny, I don't regret applying ED because I still love Columbia. I just happened to now love another school (Brown) a little more... and if I were in the fortunate position to choose between the two, I would choose Brown.</p>
<p>My love for Columbia was solidified from the moment I first walked on campus, and up until I was deferred, I was incredibly excited and nervous. But being deferred, especially when I know that I have better [read: enormously superior] credentials than some ED admits I personally know has made me a bit bitter.</p>
<p>Currently, if I got an acceptance letter from Harvard or Princeton, I'd accept without a doubt. That being said, if Columbia accepted me (but not the other two), I'd still be overjoyed and incredibly happy. I applied ED to Columbia because I feel that not only would I be happy there, but I might have that additional chance of admission. I would also be happy at other schools, but given that I'm even less likely to get into such other schools, I was more than willing to forgo my opportunity at other schools if Columbia wanted me.</p>
<p>Even though it kills me that I got deferred, I'd still go there in a heartbeat... Really hoping for good news in April.</p>