<p>Sadly, your grades are not high enough for “your big state school” if you live in Virginia. UVa, Wm & Mary and VaTech are very competitive. That said, there are many other state schools here which are very good. Take a look at George Mason, Mary Washington, VCU ( esp. for the Arts), Radford ( teaching), Christopher Newport, ODU, etc. </p>
<p>Consider going online or buying a guide to colleges and looking up schools in your state or another geographic area that interests you. Also, talk to your guidance counselor or whoever help with college planning at your high school, he/she will likely have some good suggestions.</p>
<p>You sound like someone with a lot to offer. There is a school for you ( actually, several) and you will find it.</p>