<p>I think you need to clarify your position on merit aid and how you will pay for college if you don’t get it. No point in applying to colleges that you can’t afford.</p>
<p>My son was interested in many of the colleges on your list. What were safeties for him then (nearly 10 years ago) could be considered matches now – Hamilton and Kenyon. Although you don’t really need another reach I’d look at Williams because of their strong sciences and social sciences plus an attraction to candidates with music ECs.</p>