@AmeliaCharlotte If you think Oberlin is depressing in winter, you will most certainly feel the same way in the NE. I think you should stick to CA LACs (including Oxy which someone else mentioned but is not part of the consortium) and Davidson (NC), & Haverford and Swarthmore. PA does not usually have as harsh long winters as the NE. Richmond and Wake Forest are already on your list and they may fit the bill.