<p>U Chicago has foresaken some of its quirkiness (not all) in its recent quest for ranking improvement. My D and I were surprised by how UNquirky most of the current and accepted students were this past spring at Accepted Student days. Lots of “strivers”, though… Plus, the OP is not close to the scores needed to get in there these days… CalTech also out of reach unless her SATs go way, way up.</p>
<p>What about one of the Claremont Colleges? Or you might find your fit at Carleton – it is NOT in a big city, but is about 35 minutes from the Twin Cities. It is a reach, though, unless you improve your SAT scores. It is not in a big city, but Smith might be a good fit for you – and the 5 College Consortium adds academic and social options. Or maybe Bryn Mawr? Macalester is in the city and has a good share of quirky students.</p>