<p>neatoburrito, MIT does offer programs which interest middle schoolers. I think last weekend was devoted to the SPLASH program, and I think they have an array of other educational outreach programs, including a summer program. If Faymom lives in the Boston area, her son could well know MIT well enough to love it. It’s actually more rational to prefer an organization you know and like, to other institutions with which you’ve had no contact, as an eighth grader.</p>
<p>Also, I think the kids who declare MIT to be their dream school are establishing their identity as science & math devotees. As a senior in high school, they may change their plans, and broaden their horizons. After all, there’s Johns Hopkins, CalTech, Carnegie Mellon, Harvey Mudd…</p>