<p>Maybe it's easier if you aren't in such a hyper environment. After reading these boards I'm grateful that we live in a state where the flagship university is so highly regarded, and where there is a long tradition of people who have other options staying in state.</p>
<p>I think it helped to be surrounded by people who think that going to the University is a big deal, so they tend to celebrate ALL college admissions. My D. did apply to two "Ivies" and we talked a lot about the lottery factor and that at her level, getting in is a more or less random event. She understands that both of the kids in her class who were admitted to hyperselective schools had significant hooks--one a recruited athlete whose grades and scores were NOT any lower than average for that school, and one kid whose family name graces one of the buildings at the school he applied to. I think that made it easier to see that not being accepted does not make her a lesser student than these two.</p>