<p>I know a few friends who are accepted and/or called for interviews (therefore qualified) for #1 program in their field of study. What universities are they from? Ranked 50+ by US NEWS! So it is very possible. And if you want more concrete proof, you can always browse through the graduate student directory and see where they completed their undergraduate (sometimes their CVs are posted on the lab websites where they do research). This way, you can see what they have accomplished as undergraduate). </p>
<p>Nevertheless, I still believe you have more opportunities at a top university (mentioned in the previous posts). Ultimately, if you’re going to dedicate your college-life to class and research, I don’t think it would matter that much (you will succeed wherever you go but you won’t have much free time to do other things in life!). I don’t mean to discourage you; Research is SUPER FUN.</p>
<p>But there are other avenues in life. Remember you only live once… there is an alternative way to get into a top program without sacrificing your ‘once in a life time college experience’: plan out your undergraduate milestone really well (start thinking the type of research you want and what it requires [e.g. major, classes, exp]), get a 3.6+ GPA (while having fun moderately), join summer research program (2-3rd year; this could be really fun as well), continue on with research on your 4th year, graduate, Post-Bachelor research (publication/paper is key here) + GRE, then finally apply. From what I have heard and seen so far, graduate adcom would not weigh down an applicant if he/she spent an extra 2-3 years to build their experience. It makes sense because it assures the adcom regarding your interest in the topic and of course, it lets you experience research full-time for longer than a mere summer.</p>
<p>Personally, I would choose free debt / full ride at a good-great school rather than paying 150k+ at a top university (Exception, if my parents are wealthy!).</p>