<p>I find these my-school-is-better discussions amusing, although destructive. My children both thought other opportunities were “better” than Stanford, and didn’t apply.</p>
<p>In high school, I thought Stanford was the “best,” although my dad didn’t let me apply; he took time off from work to come to my high school to meet with the Stanford admissions officer with me (and only two other kids–those were the days!). Dad blew right past the fluff and asked, “What kind of scholarships [read: financial aid] are available?” The admissions officer smirked and said, “Unless you’re the next Jim Plunkett, there are no scholarships.” (Given objobs familiarity with Stanford sports, he will be able to approximate my age.) My dad walked out, and my Stanford hopes were dashed.</p>
<p>My older child believed an elite LAC was the “best college” for him, and my younger believed Columbia was the “best college” for him. I believe each was correct.</p>
<p>My younger spent a lot of time on the Stanford campus, but ultimately decided it felt too much like “a country club where people go to classes.” I translate that as “a suburban campus filled with people like me that feels too much like my high school.” Columbia, on the other hand, had all the academics he sought (even if it is a step below Stanford, as many apparently believe), while in a vibrant, energizing, far-away environment. Notwithstanding my stale, yet unwavering, support of Stanford, he applied ED to Columbia and is ecstatic with his choice.</p>
<p>My simple point is that, above a certain level, the “best” college experience for any high school student is the one that is right for him or her. I know this concept is not novel, but in light of the discourse on this thread, I humbly believe it is time to re-introduce the concept.</p>