<p>S-P-R-E-A-D out her applications among schools with varied selectivity -for the best chance at merit aid coupled with your FA needs. This is a case where she should probably apply to 10-12+ (it’s called having financial safeties and for as hard as she’s worked, she will deserve a choice) unless her clear favorite meets full need and she applies ED (in which case she still needs other apps at-the-ready, and in case of surprises)</p>
<p>First of all, congratulations to you and your daughter for her success in high school and to your family for having the strength to support her so well for 16 years and now into the college process. Good for you! Sounds like your D has a lot more important stuff going for her than going against her (an average high school). Keep in mind, too, that what you hear about students on CC is not about your average American student applying to college. We’re probably as a group above average in finances, education, neighborhood schools, college prep, leisure time, etc., and we’re all-in for the idea that education is a key component of success in America. Also, remind those adults who expect your daughter to attend the most elite schools that getting into those schools is much much tougher than it was in their day. Most of us who went to elite schools could not get into the same school today. So, yes, encourage her to pick a couple colleges that are reaches for anyone and help her to write excellent essays. Then focus on the schools where a 31 isn’t going to get in the way of a 4.0 student. Some schools like this that also are known for generosity: Rochester, Tulane, Case Western, Vanderbilt come to mind. Good luck.</p>