<p>USNWR is a broad brush and very cliquish rankings system. Its a starting point, not an ending point. People who pick colleges based solely on rankings deserve what they get. Thus, examine all your college choices carefully for fit for YOU: academics, social scene, financial, geographic, etc. If you find a school which fits you wonderfully and will give you the money you need, then go for it. Lots of good second and third tier schools out there, particularly the small private schools who like strong students like you. In state publics are a good value to be certain and not to be overlooked. They should be on your final list, but not the only schools on that list.</p>
<p>Also, be open to the concept that some kids are determined to major in a topic and then get to college and change their minds. Core requirements are meant to give you a panoply of experiences and open doors and ideas to you. Its okay to be focused, but just not with a ball and chain around your neck.</p>