<p>Wow, thanks everyone!</p>
<p>college_ruled : I didn’t realize that merit would hurt the FA offer. Thanks, and also for the link! I’ve bookmarked it, and will definitely send it along.</p>
<p>happymomof1 : Thank you! The more info the better, for sure, and even if that list [which I haven’t read yet, to be honest] doesn’t fit the type of schools he’s looking for, I’d love to at least show him that he shouldn’t feel trapped.</p>
<p>plumazul : Hahaha, thanks for the advice :] I’m actually in the extremely fortunate situation where I really can’t expect anything in FA, so this is kind of new to me. Merit wise, I still have to look into what I should do with my NMSF nomination, and naming schools and all that. But beyond that, my parents have both agreed that I should go where I want, and cost is only going to help make a decision once I get my acceptance [and rejection, haha] letters. My first app is due 11/1 too, I’m bugging out! Best of luck :]</p>