<p>My daughter graduated from high school in 2009 and took a gap year. She deferred to Macalester College and had an amazing "life changing" interim year. So... she's now at Mac and is happy with the school community and her courses, but realizes that Macalester doesn't have a major that she's passionate about. Something along the line of sustainable agriculture is what excites her, which completely changes the focus of her college choice. As she said, Mac would have been the perfect college for her a year ago, but her interests have changed.</p>
<p>Sterling College in VT looks good on paper, but does anyone have any firsthand experience? We're now looking at more unconventional, alternative schools, and I worry about academic rigor and the student body. She's a hardworking, bright young woman who really wants to learn, and doesn't have much patience for people who don't have the same commitment. Any words of wisdom would be appreciated!</p>