<p>I had to laugh when I saw your gap year options - hedge fund? What would you do there? A general’s aide is a commissioned officer, not a graduated HS student. </p>
<p>Continuing where UCB left off, if you aren’t willing to attend your safety then it’s not a safety. It sounds like you have a serious case of prestige worship if you’re only willing to attend the most select schools on your list. A gap year may be best but be realistic about what you’re going to accomplish.</p>