<p>My GPA is something around 3.76 UW (with a strong upward curve), with a 30 ACT (which I will be taking once more before I send in my application). I am strongly involved with the performing arts at my school, I do a lot of volunteer work, and my class rigor is solid. After long deliberation, I finally decided on 8 schools. Tell me what you think, with my stats.</p>
<p>Dartmouth
Stanford
Swarthmore
UChicago
Johns Hopkins
Hendrix
Hampshire
Boston University</p>
<p>too top-heavy imo. i don’t know everything about your application but just based on the numbers you would not gain admittance to the first 5 schools on your list.</p>
<p>Dartmouth - Reach
Stanford - Reach
Swarthmore - Reach
UChicago - Reach
Johns Hopkins - Reach
Hendrix
Hampshire
Boston University </p>
<p>Unless you don’t mind going to Hendrix, Hampshire, or BU, you need to change that list.</p>
<p>It’s thin in the middle.<br>
There must be at least 50 LACs that are more selective than Hendrix or Hampshire but less so than Swarthmore. Consider expanding your list from those, and perhaps dropping one or two of your reaches (unless you’re o.k. with a fairly long list). </p>
<p>They are all expensive schools. If your family can’t easily afford over $50K/year, you need a financial safety. Building up the middle could also increase the odds of getting an adequate aid package. </p>
<p>It’s also a rather eclectic list (in terms of atmosphere, size, and setting). If you like them all equally for different reasons, that’s perfectly o.k. If you like some much better than others, you may be able to match the qualities of your top choice(s) a little more closely.</p>
<p>I think you have an interesting list, a good start, but one that still needs a bit of work. Have fun.</p>