<p>OK, I get what you're saying. Also, I'd like to add that financial aid is a concern so what schools (that aren't extremely tough to get into) offer lots of financial aid? The combined income of my parents is under 25-30K and I am first generation what schools would pay most of my tuition for me?</p>
<p>Most schools outside of the very top do not guarantee to meet full need so you will also want to look at schools that give merit money. Your best bet are schools that you are in the top 5-10% of the applicant pool. Grinnell would be a good one to look at, but there's a list of schools on the parent's forum that offer lots of merit money.</p>