<p>I think that too many people possibly focus on that ONE and only dream school, only to be crushed by whatever vaguearies of the admissions process decree that this is not to be. My sagely parental advice is that you need to look for and apply to a variety of schools where you could be reasonably happy. Your college choice really is not your only destiny set in stone somewhere. Much of college success actually is determined by what you put into it. (I teach at …GASP…a community college and have seen several former students go onto successes that equal or exceed Carleton or even Harvard alumni.)
Something else to think about is that although Carleton is a really great school, at Carleton and those like it, your 31 ACT (or even your 36 ACT) will not grant you great distinction or financial gain. The same son who was refused by Carleton was offered admission and terrific merit aid by several schools that are lesser ranked, by virtue of that 32. After visiting some of these, I really believe that he will be just as happy as (and wealthier than) his brother at Carleton. Truth be told, a few of these seem a bit more diligent in their advising, off campus studies and internship programs.
In short, don’t box yourself in mentally to only one school. Keep your options open and your mind clear.</p>