<p>Lots of good advice on this thread. Additional thoughts: The private, independent universities are really big on the personal touch. My son is wait listed at GW, and they have bent over backwards in their letter to him saying in effect, “If you really WANT us as your top choice, fill out the form, fax it, and then call us on one of three days in April and tell us.” Then, I had a convo with an insider who confirmed exactly what I am telling you. So, if you really want a university, find out their appeals procedures (yes, some of the Big Names like Stanford have no appeals, but your wait lists obviously give you an insider’s possibility), and go for it! Good luck and do not despair.</p>