Keep in mind that many people on this thread may be relying on first impressions or through the grapevine because most people know the most about the colleges they go to. The ones I am commenting happen to be schools I really enjoy and have visited (with the exception of Swarthmore, which I relied on some friends’ interpretations) so I have done some research on both sides
William and Mary (my current school): great school, but it does have its own set of pros and cons. Registration can be tough (which is the case at any smaller school) because of limited spots available, so you may not get your first choice. Banner can be buggy. Many undergrad research and professor interaction opportunities, but you have to be proactive, they will not always approach you. There is CW, Busch Gardens, and some smaller shops/diners, but it’s not a college town like let’s say Ann Arbor or Boston. Does not have engineering school for people interested in that. Freshman dorms can vary in terms of air conditioning availability and quality. Most of the school is not as old as its founding date (1693), so much of the campus is actually relatively new. Not for people that definitely want the city. Has the reputation of having more introverted/quirky people than other college campuses (could be a positive depending on the person). Academically rigorous reputation.
Carleton: Very cold, can be intimidating if from somewhere warm, lots of snow. Trimester system can be frustrating for those applying to certain jobs/internships that start at a certain time. In my hour long interview with an alum (really great interview btw) the only part she seemed to hesitate on was job connections or the career center which has “gotten better because they built a new career center.” Has the vibe of learning for learning sake or grad school rather than job connections necessarily. Definitely leans towards being liberal.
Swarthmore: Has the reputation of being preppy/snobby (again, take generalizations with a grain of salt)
Hamilton: Felt somewhat isolated in the winter, passed many bison/farmland on the way, felt very small, could get to know all of campus very easily, gym facilities also were not super huge, lack of core requirements could be intimidating for students who don’t know what to do (limits people to what they are comfortable with?)
Tufts: very hilly campus, the male tour guides were all wearing salmon pants (preppy impression?), similar quirky vibe as WM, not actually that close to Boston takes a drive, early dining hall closing times (?)
Anyhow, feel free to message me or reply with any more questions, I’d be happy to expand or talk about things some more. I put alot down for WM because it is the one I am the most familiar with, but I could come up with an even longer list of positives because I really enjoy the school. These are just the things I came up with on the top of my head.