Hi. I want to preface by saying that I’ve visited Smith (the school I want to apply ED to) many times and really love it. I can’t see myself going anywhere else and being as happy as I would be at Smith. With that said, though, I’ve recently been having doubts about ED. They’re hard to articulate, but are a combination of nerves, doubts, and fears. What if I don’t end up liking it? What if I’m not meant to go there? What if they don’t offer me enough aid?
I’ve known since I first stepped onto the campus that Smith is where I want to be and where I belong, but the weight of the approaching deadline is making me nervous.
I’d love some advice and some words of wisdom, particularly from students who have applied ED in the past or parents of students who have applied ED. Thanks:)
Have you run the net price calculator? If it does not look affordable, or if your parents want the option to compare FA offers (if finances are very important), you should not apply ED. Don’t count on the financial aid fairies appearing and fixing it if the calculator doesn’t look workable.
You could “not end up liking it” at any school you select in May. That said, if you don’t feel ready to commit, then don’t apply ED.
“What if I’m not meant to go there?” Then admissions will reject you. 
Not to be glib, but it might not even be your decision in the end. I don’t believe anyone is “meant” to go anywhere. You make your own choices and your own destiny. Own it.
Thank you for your prompt response!!
My family and I have tried the cost calc on Smith’s website, and if the package I’m awarded (if I get admitted, of course) is what the calculator shows, finances will not be an issue. I think I’m more worried about them changing the estimated package in the Spring when the final package is announced.
That’s also very true… Good point.
That’s a good way of looking at things… Thanks:)
My take – if the net price calculator looks good, and you have made multiple visits and prefer it over other schools, go for it! But don’t stop preparing your other applications. If you do get rejected, it is hard to get motivated to move forward with other essays and apps. So keep working on those with the full expectation that you will have to submit them. And good luck!!!
Will do! Thanks for the advice:)
I really really appreciate it!
By the way – love the user name. hums Hamilton soundtrack