<p>A little bit out of left field, but based on what you’ve written … have you looked at the website Colleges That Change Lives? It’s a listing of liberal arts colleges around the country that tend to fly under the radar of the more corporate listings of “top colleges”. I think their website is <a href=“http://www.ctcl.org;%5B/url%5D”>www.ctcl.org;</a> but if you Google it, you’ll get it for sure. </p>
<p>It sounds as though your son might thrive in an environment that helps him develop as an individual. A lot of these colleges also have a significant IR or study-abroad component. Also, since they tend to attract a different type of student, they tend to have significant creative opportunities, as well. </p>
<p>And, based on what you’ve written, I would continue to encourage him to look at Ithaca.</p>