How commonly is a student's "safety" school a poorly considered throw-in?

<p>@NEPatsGirl Sorry can’t edit this in. The campus might be a better fit also. Classic New England brickwork. Living learning communities that are safe and friendly. Much more of a private school feel with smaller classes. Also Maine supports study abroad so her merit money can be used for that if she wants to go abroad junior year. UMass is just so pricey for a force fit. What did Mom2collegekids say? This is America and it’s nice to have choices.</p>