Thanks for the continued comments.
@monydad it’s an issue I will research further. I’m guessing Wake ends up being one of the schools that drops off anyway, but the other 3 you mentioned may stay on. I’ve heard they are pretty balanced and somewhat apolitical, but I will seek more opinions. None are being considered for ED at this point.
RE: Tulane:
I saw somewhere that the RD rate was 1%, which is about what I would expect. They value interest so much I’m guessing they think if you didn’t at least EA then you don’t pass that test. It sounds like they try to push the deferred EA kids (which is most of the applicants) to switch to ED II to increase their chances. Personally I think it should be considered for that if she doesn’t get into Amherst (I know they are very different schools, but appealing for different reasons). My guess is that she won’t though and will ED II Hamilton instead.
RE: # of Apps:
It’s going to be a bunch. I think especially this year it will be a bit of a crap shoot where she gets in. So having more chances will help, maybe even a bit more than normal. Her schedule is comparatively light first semester, and she knows she is going to be spending a ton of time on essays. She is not excited by that, but understands that it is the reality. The push for the selective school is from her not me. So if she wants to reach that goal she probably has to spend a good chunk of her free time between now and Jan 1 crafting essays. That would include info sessions, instagram stalking, etc. to know what to write to show her fit.