I definitely agree with having Rochester on the list. (UR - haven’t seen as good aid at RIT) He seems like an ideal candidate to be competitive for their higher awards. Pittsburgh (also previously suggested) could provide merit aid and be a nice safety. It’s more urban (in feel) than Rochester. UR has their own “bubble” campus and Pitt is right in the city. Cornell is more rural, but is still worth visiting if you get to the state.