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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]This isn’t about being bitter or having sour grapes. Plenty of middle-class families raise very capable, hardworking kids, and those students should have a fair shot at strong schools—whether that’s a T5 or a T30. But under the banner of fairness? it’s often middle-class families who are given false hope. They’re told that if their children work hard and have talent, it will pay off in the long run. They’re encouraged to apply to prestigious institutions because that’s supposedly where the best and brightest go. Is it?

The reality is that unhooked, middle-class applicants are competing for a tiny number of remaining spots. It becomes a rat race. Some families see this clearly and choose more practical majors or schools that will genuinely value their children’s abilities and effort. Some capable students opt out entirely, stepping away from the madness to start their careers or businesses earlier.

Whether that’s unfortunate or simply pragmatic depends on perspective. In the end, every family has to make the most sensible choice for themselves. One simple rule still applies: there’s no reason to take on heavy debt just for the sake of prestige.[/quote]

It's easy to understand the "rat race" and realize it is very easy to find great schools that won't cost 90K.  My own kid ([b]1480[/b]/3.95UW/8AP mostly stem) and decent EC got into 7 schools ranked 30-80.  All gave decent to great merit.  a T50 would have only cost us $40-45K/year (a 90K school) and we were not even trying to get merit, that was just the basic merit offered for applying.

Most people recognize this and apply accordingly.  It's only crazies on DCUM/in rich areas that are obsessed and feel entitled to send their kid to a T25 school "because they are smart"[/quote]

The "crazies on DCUM" typically have a much higher score 1550+.  [/quote]

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