If you go visit Macalester, build in a visit to St. Olaf as well. Their acceptance odds are better, and they gave us the best merit aid of anywhere. Our kids ended up going elsewhere, but if you're looking for merit, they're worth checking out. Really kind people, as well.

Anonymous wrote:I think of Macalester--funky, liberal, urban--and Richmond--privileged, southern, pre-professional--as near opposities. Why are these two at the top of your list?

she's asking for schools with merit.

people, the question is not hard.

holy cross, Oberlin, possibly santa Clara.

schools down a level like puget sound.

also places that are already cheaper than Pitt and McGill

Anonymous wrote:Help me: what in the world does this kid like about Swat Williams AND Columbia. They’re all particularly distinct from one another.

prestige

I think of Macalester--funky, liberal, urban--and Richmond--privileged, southern, pre-professional--as near opposities. Why are these two at the top of your list?