<p>Thanks gearmom 
I looked at USM in the first round but from all accounts it is declining in numbers and finances are an issue. I think most recently they were going to demolish their two largest residential buildings because of the lack of students residing on campus. Apparently that number decreases each year. All in all, even given the shuttle to the Portland campus (which I imagine can be a PIA in the dead of winter), it would have been a contender if the future didn’t look so bleak. We both really want a true residential campus where at least the majority of students live, rather than a commuter school. But I appreciate any and all recommendations, there is so much out there and just not enough research time.</p>