I’m surprised at your diminished view of Emory. It is considered an elite university. Because it’s not in the NE or Ca it sometimes gets overlooked but don’t underestimate the school or its students.
My child is there. It is not a party school. Not even a football team. Students are serious and work hard. The school is also noteworthy for its study abroad programs as well as community service. They had 4 Rhodes Scholar finalists this year. The business school is a bit cutthroat but other majors seem to be quite collaborative in nature. Jimmy Carter gives a private lecture to the freshman class each year, and the Carter Center is right there too. The school also has a partnership with the Dalai Lama. It you’re interested in poli sci Emory offers lots of unique opportunities.