<p>You’re right that applying to all 4 would not be a good use of your time. You are unlikely to have the same feelings about all those colleges, and if you are planning to apply to them, what is your rationale? is it for the prestige? do they have the programs you want? There is a reason many of those people have such high scores and accomplishments because those schools are uber competitive. It is not impossible, but even the highest achievers should not count on it.</p>
<p>You need more realistic matches and safeties. Are finances an issue? NYU is ridiculously expensive nowadays and does not offer significant need based aid. You should apply to schools where you know you have a reasonable chance of getting accepted to and can afford financially. What are you interested in studying? Emory itself I would probably still put on the reach side of things. I know your parents are just trying to help, but I think it’s time for a reality check as well. You want to have options by the time may/april rolls around, and applicants have been more competitive than ever. If you didn’t get into the top schools you wanted, would you be happy going to your state flagship (I’m assuming Oklahoma or Kansas) These are the realities you will have to face if you don’t add enough matches and safeties to your list.</p>
<p>There are plenty of colleges out there great at a wide variety of things, some yes I daresay it better than the ivy league. Choose a college that is a good fit, not just because your parents told you to apply.</p>