Thanks, @eandesmom . I personally really liked a visit to Redlands with a different child, and hadn’t considered it for this one and for CS. It doesn’t seem particularly strong in CS-- do you know anything about the program? But, then again, privates that are a “match” for him might not have the most robust CS program, as CS is just so competitive. For matches, he might be better off going to a OOS public with an honors program that is within his reach to give it the more intimate feel that he is hoping for.
He wants to avoid WA state, but I like your other suggestions, too.
I agree we need more true matches.
@quarkpie LAC’s and CS are an interesting combo to try and find. We had Macalester on our list for a LONG time but ultimately it fell off due to the small department size.
I’d also consider Colorado School of Mines and San Jose State. Mines can be a pressure cooker, they are trying to work on that though. We hire a lot from Mines but not for CS (Engineering firm).
I’m not sure I’d agree that Mines is better that Cal Poly, it would depend on the discipline, each have their strengths.
You have really good safeties. If you add CSU or one other and he would truly be happy to attend any, it is ok to have just high match/low reaches. As long as he would REALLY be ok attending any of them.
My S19, lower GPA but higher test scores, similar AP/Activities, but urban area white kid only applied to 4 schools (2 safeties, one match, one reach) and then withdrew one. The match school was a low reach for the major (RIT CS) If you have an EA strategy that gives you early results, it’s a fine way to go. We had back up plans if things didn’t work out and other apps that could have gone in and as long as you plan accordingly, it can be ok. I was worried about not having more matches. That said he was VERY clear on his first choice and did decide to go ED which definitely helped. With CS, I would consider that, if it makes sense and feels right and the financials are livable. I wasn’t going to let him to be honest but he really sold us on it.