Asked same on richmond board. What difference do you see for non-engineer type, but major unknown. S attended scholars day at Laf, which was impressive, but not a real feel for campus. Costs approx the same (gor some merit at both). Also considering Colgate, but full pay. Any thoughts? Thanks!
In my opinion, these schools are academically pretty much on par with each other. With that being said, I would definitely choose between Laf and Richmond (where you are getting some merit). After that, maybe go to both of the accepted students days and see which feels like the best fit.
For full disclosure my D attended Lafayette and loved pretty much everything about it – great friends, wonderful professors, amazing education, easy to get involved in ECs, tons of opportunity to do research (she was a psych major) and she got into a great grad program for her field. She did not apply to the other two schools on your list (Richmond was larger than she wanted, Colgate just didn’t resonate with her during a visit) but I agree that they are all pretty much on par with one another academically and I know people who have loved each of the schools.
If the money difference is significant and would post any type of hardship for your family I"d take out Colgate immediately since there are two more affordable options which are also excellent.
Otherwise re-visit during accepted students day if possible, consider the differences between the schools (size, location, majors available (ex. Richmond has business, Lafayette has engineering) etc.), listen to your gut feeling, make a choice, and never look back whichever way you go. All great options to have.
*pose (not post) LOL
Obviously if you are considering majoring in business, then UR is the best choice.