<p>This is my first post, and I am so glad there is a resource like this online. Well, I didn't get accepted to terribly prestigious universities as some people did, but here they are: UCSB, UCSD, UCD, UCSC and I was put on the waiting list for the Rhode Island School of Design.</p>
<p>My interests are definitely in the arts and humanities. The reason I only applied to one art college is because I wanted to take classes besides art, and RISD has this option. It is my absolute top choice, but this school does not have finacial aid for people from the waiting list-- and it's expensive. My family would have to make some major adjustments, and I don't really want a giant debt hanging over my head for the rest of my life, either. </p>
<p>As for the UCs, I have no particular favoritism. I like the clean atmosphere and the hard workers at UCSD, and I guess it has the better reputation (?). UC Santa Barbara invited me into the honors program, so that would give me some good opportunities. And I love the setting and laid-back attitude at UCSC. To tell the truth, I'm a little disappointed (but not surprised) that I didn't get into UCLA. Is there no way I can do that now, if RISD doesn't work out?</p>
<p>I don't know enough about college planning; college just crept up on me. My parents are supportive, though one secretly thinks college is elitist. No one worked me up to this point, and I am very uncertain what my best choice is. Help would be much appreciated!</p>
<p>--Kim</p>