<p>OP–for privates, a lot of times, the financial aid will bring the cost down to below out-of-state tuition. Publics will probably still be cheaper, unless the school offers extreme fin. aid (like Harvard, which expects only 10% of your income).<br>
I personally would recommend the UCs, but since you’re not hot on public schools, I’m not sure. Competition is tough at the UCs, but they do have very solid academics all around. I really don’t know many schools that would prepare for med school. St. John’s College (not university) is really nice if you’re looking for a broad, well-rounded education. They have a unique program that I really was attracted to, and I would have gone there if I had the money :(</p>