NEED INFORMED ADVICE on transfer tips and Options

<p>I'm looking for informed advice from anyone that has information or knowledge on transferring to any of the universities I list below. I want to know if its beneficial to make an effort to email and contact members of the schools admissions office and the type and number of recommendations to send. I'm applying for Fall 2010 transfer and am hoping to build on what I learned from orginally applying to schools last year. I saw a lot of people get into schools by making personal pleas (maybe not the right word) and contacting admissions officers informing them of their wish to attend. These sorts of little things can make a huge difference and I wanted to know if contacting officers personally and sending outside recommendations can help my chance in the process. </p>

<p>My Quick stats:
High School GPA: 3.5
ACT: 30</p>

<p>College GPA first semester at Boston University: 3.4 (I worked my ass off for this at a university infamous for grade deflation) 2 A-'s, 1 B+, 1 B-</p>

<p>Schools I'm attempting to transfer into:</p>

<p>Florida State
Ohio State
Penn State
U. of Miami
Wisconsin
Michigan
Maryland
Virginia
North Carolina
Washington
Georgia
Tulane
Boston College (Doubt I'll apply, I'm pretty sure I don't have a chance) </p>

<p>So if anyone has any advice in general or on these specific schools that'd be great</p>