With your Art focus, I’d suggest adding RISD, where you could take classes at Brown. (BIG! Reach)
Vassar (reach)
Pamona (Reach)
Northeastern (reach)
Bard. (Target)
Hampshire (Target)
Bennington – check it our online before visiting maybe too Rural or unconventional.
RIT (comfort)
Goucher (Comfort)
Eckerd (Comfort)
Women’s colleges aren’t for everyone. That said I’d add one to your list (if you are female). I think it’s too early in the game to limit your opportunities.
For your first round of visits: focus on Vassar, Bard, Hampshire (add Smith or Mount Holyoke), Northeastern, RISD. A nice three day trip with two visits per day. Make sure to register in advance with admissions department even if you don’t participate in a tour.
When you decide to apply, I would interview with as many as possible. Bring 8 x 11 photos your portfolio to all interviews, even if you are not applying for the fine art program.
For the out of area schools make contact as early as possible and meet with reps when the tour your area.
For ED, only go the ED route if you’re sure. I’m not one to suggest throwing your one ED choice at a super high reach, just because it’s a reach.
Skidmore came immediately to mind but you have that on your list. Some other ideas might be Dickinson or Muhlenberg. I’d stay away from RISD unless you are 100% sure you want to major in art.
My D had no interest in women’s colleges so we just took them off your list. If they are appealing to you that is great, but if not there are plenty of other great schools to choose from.
For a high school junior, I’d recommend keeping a open mind when deciding which schools (type of school) to visit. Visits allow the kids to “taste” a variety of envirmoments. What sounds good on paper maybe very different in person.
Both My D put outliners on their.
Older D kept one women’s college on her final list, even though she wanted co-ed. At the end of day after all the acceptances and over night visits and finances, that one women’s college came out the winner.
Younger D had list of arty rural LACs, and guess what? She’s now at large urban U.
Allot changes between 16 just beginning the investigation and 18 making their final choice. Just the process of visiting and completing all the apps is a growing experience.