<p>This seems to be a topic that nobody has been able to clarify..</p>
<p>If you list top schools, are you more likely to look like a candidate who is looking for a great education and really wants a challenge, no matter the school, or someone who looks like they're applying to all of the name-brand schools and isn't exactly sure what they're looking for? Do you think they're less likely to admit someone who is applying to equally competitive schools because of matriculation rate? It seems sort of odd that they would turn down a qualified candidate that would add to their community only because the candidate might choose another school (but if they express interest in the specific school..).</p>
<p>What I tried to do with Choate (because I had to say I was applying to Andover) was that it asked my mom who came up with the idea to come to Choate, and I told her to talk about how much I loved it and I'd been talking about it for months, which is true. I think if you're applying to loads of schools (like AESDCH) and then something like Taft or St. George's, they're going to think you'll attend Andover or something. I know it seems like it wouldn't hurt much if you think they can't assume you'll attend the "higher" school, but it would matter a lot if it happens to 100 applicants they admit and turn out to go to a different school.</p>
<p>olivia we visited 10 schools over a very short span of time.</p>
<p>Andover was the most organized
Milton was most lost
Chaote and Deerfield were most friendly
Andover and Deerfield had the best tour guides
Cocord was most homely
SPS was most wooded!
Exeter had the whale
Hotchkiss was the most isolated
Middlesex and Groton looked most alike, did not get to tour them!</p>
<p>Exeter does have the whale. No one forgets that. :)
I think it realy won't make a difference if you list schools that are in that "tier". Maybe they might make a teeny, tiny note of it, but really, I doubt it comes into play much, if at all, in decisions making. If you're applying to mostly schools above the tier of the school you're interviewing, so it appears that they're your safety, then they'll probably keep it in mind, and it could influence their decision.</p>
<p>Probably true for Andover, but I would rather have than, a disorganized Admissions office. Choate is my daughter's first choice (if she has the luxury) </p>
<p>Do post when you get your offers, I am sure my D would like to shake your hand at Choate :)</p>