<p>Title says it all. </p>
<p>Main considerations: </p>
<ul>
<li>Prestige</li>
<li>Academics (Top-tier grad school placements?) </li>
<li>Financial Aid </li>
<li>Drug/Alcohol Culture (Preferrably minimal.)</li>
</ul>
<p>Small liberal Arts schools draw from an elite group of top students and families who are not as concerned with prestige as others who gravitate to larger, better-known schools. Among people in academia, these schools are all well-known and respected, but among a student’s peers and relatives, they may not be known and appreciated at all. So over-all they are tied for all around prestige and excellent academics and grad school admittance. </p>
<p>These colleges are in very different locations in the US. Macalester is in a vibrant and safe urban neighborhood in an area of the country that gets extremely cold. The advantages of it’s location are that it’s easy to get around via public transportation, there’s plenty to do on and off campus, and students can take advantage of internships in the twin cities. There’s probably less alcohol and drug use on campus because there are so many entertainment options. Students tend to be very committed to their studies, but, like young people everywhere, they like to have a good time.</p>
<p>Macalester offers to meet the financial need of admitted students. However, some students get better offers from other colleges, so it’s a good idea to apply to several schools to compare offers. Grinnell, in particular, is known for generous aid. </p>
<p>These schools are all known for excellent academics and financial aid. It would be more worthwhile to look at particular strengths in your areas of interest.</p>