Basically, you are correct. Keep in mind though, if Penny PNM is a rude you-know-what or they find out at the last minute that she was close friends with,
, the whole debate team, then she won't get on their list. But that's a rare happening. What maximizing your options means is that you will be placed with one of your pref groups if you attend all parties for which you have been slated and list all the ones whose pref you attended on your bid card (MRABA). But it may be your last choice.