I feel like I am selling myself short

<p>You are very likely going to get into NYU (can’t imagine that you wouldn’t if your essays are solid, etc.). I would not ED there. Do RD at NYU and some additional colleges. If you can get to the library today, grab a copy of the Fiske Guide to Colleges and read up on some additional options. I agree that Northwestern, Wash U, CMU all would be good options. See where you get in, what the FA packages look like, and attend some accepted student days before deciding.</p>