<p>A few more thoughts- my D checked out Rice, Wash U and Northwestern last year. </p>
<p>Wash U seems like a fairly safe campus, although close (ie a few miles) to a very rough neighborhood. They have some very interesting music opportunities for non- music majors who want to continue to pursue their development. Check them out. </p>
<p>Northwestern- the conservatory is outstanding, but again, like Rice they are not keen on non-music majors playing in the orchestras or chamber programs. </p>
<p>It seemed that the schools with the finest conservatories were the ones least likely to offer strong music opportunities for those who wish to pursue music as an extracurricular or minor. </p>
<p>Since my D wanted to pursue an academic track with music as a major extracurricular and possibly performance as a minor, she ruled out Rice- did not apply (it’s also 15 minutes from home). Although she applied and was accepted to Northwestern, decided to go elsewhere where she would be able to do the performance minor. (and get better fin aid)</p>
<p>Don’t get me wrong- Northwestern’s fin aid was excellent. But Princeton’s was better.
Wash U waitlisted her- in part I think because it is not need blind for admissions and our need was great. Of course, probably other factors too.</p>