Well, reading this thread has been a real trip down nostalgia lane. I did college apps last year. What fun. I'm not at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. The mech. eng. dept. here is one of those little known but good ones, and I'm here despite the stigma of 'State U'. Some school tips
Boston University- Avoid like the plague if you're into engineering. Got in, didn't go.
WPI- Got in, didn't go. Too expensive and the need for mandatory showers during orientation week is a real turn-off
MIT- Didn't apply, so far above me, it wasn't worth the app fee
RPI- Got in, didn't go. Have you ever *seen* Troy, NY? Ew. There's a reason everyone drinks...
Olin- God among engineering schools. But, they didn't like me
If you can, go here.
Also, the stress in the app situation is really too much. Fortunately, my parents let me deal with it myself. After all, being a UPS man pays well (or so they keep telling me when my tuition bill comes). Good luck to all.