Having trouble figuring out what LACs are a good fit

I agree with the poster on the previous page that Williams and Amherst are more similar than different, and, certainly, Williams is “in the middle of nowhere”, although its a pretty nowhere to be. Amherst, actually, is less isolated since it shares the town of Amherst with UMass and is a free bus ride away from Hampshire, Mt. Holyoke, and Smith. Its also a lot more diverse than its traditional reputation suggests. Also, neither Amherst or Williams give merit aid because they consider all their students worthy of it.

A more productive place to look might be the website of the “colleges that change lives” (CTCL), which relates to a book that may be available in the public library. Some, such as Ohio Wesleyan and Denison, have already been suggested. Those typically are less well-known schools that often are fairly generous with merit aid because they’re trying to raise their academic profiles. Students generally (and I am generalizing) seem to love them, although some are in more isolated areas of Ohio, Indiana, and Pennsylvania (at least the ones I’m familiar with).

Definitely agree with the Denison recommendation! Denison desperately wants to be known as an “elite” LAC, so gives away tons of money to lure good students. The education there is top notch, and the school is in extremely good financial shape which is important during a time when many private schools are struggling. Granville is a charming town and Columbus is only 30 minutes away. The alumni network is strong, active, and willing to help current students. I chose Denison over a higher ranked LAC and, while I was worried I made the wrong decision at first, was very happy with my Denison experience.