<p>Being a fan of the rural schools I had my biggest problem with being in the city. It is a small campus surrounded by people and buildings, you walk off it and you're in downtown providence. Certainly everyone doesn't have a problem with this, I just thought you might as you are applying to more isolated schools. I truly believe Dartmouth is the most undergraduate oriented ivy, followed by Princeton. I have never heard Brown mentioned in this light. As to the ivy snobbery, this could be imagined but I got a feeling of self importance when I visited, unlike at the other schools. It seemed like this could be because of it's "ivy" reputation. I suppose a plus would be the lack of required core courses though. I personally think it fits in least of the schools on your top pick list but if you like the school as I did, I don't want to discourage you.</p>
<p>I actually have visted Brown 5 times! I think there isn't really snobbery at all, and most people are pretty cool. Thayer street is great, and its totally college oriented. Providence itself is pretty nice now as well. I'd say Dartmouth (and Princeton) are more undergrad focused though, but Brown is up there. I ended up choosing Dartmouth over Brown because of the more tighknit community, but Brown is still awesome.</p>
<p>lol, as I think about it, I actually read about the undergrad oriented atmosphere on the Brown website. So, I should have realized that that didn't mean they really were the best in that area. Anyways, I'm not going to rule out Brown, but I will think about what you said FishS. You're right, I do tend to like rural campuses, but I'm not against some cities (like Providence). Slipper1234, I take it you really like Dartmouth then?</p>
<p>Yeah, its the best, I actually graduated a couple years ago and to this day I pretty much see my Dartmouth friends every night I am out. We all talk about how much we loved it all the time. People are awesome and friendly (in a hilarious laid back kind of way), the Professors really care, everyone is welcome at every party, and everyone loves going back! Its almost a little utopian. Also, so many other things make it great like the study abroad, sophomore summer, the ski mountain, the river, etc. People just love "loving" it, its kind of crazy but its true! </p>
<p>But seriously don't rule out Brown! It isn't as community oriented as some of those other schools, but it has many great things going for it.</p>
<p>I'm a big fan of Dartmouth myself even with the classic "ivy" feel. It has a wonderful campus and strong community with plenty of outdoor opportunities. Very focused on the undergrad also.</p>
<p>Thank you both so much for your advice!</p>