That’s great that you got a positive response from Oberlin. I’m curious to know what the response was from the other schools you contacted – no, or just no response?
Oberlin actually has a very good geology department. It’s a member of the Keck Consortium, which, if you don’t know about see here: http://www.keckgeology.org/
These are all good choices for geology.
Oberlin considers you a transfer if “1) They have been enrolled in a degree-seeking program, regardless of how many credits have been earned.” They accept transfers for Spring semester.
Interestingly, they note that although the deadline for Fall semester has passed (it was March 15) “Applications completed after these deadlines will be considered as space allows.” If I were you I’d pursue this further now.
I wouldn’t worry too much about finding a school with an undergraduate journalism major, as many successful journalists have liberal arts degrees.
I also wouldn’t focus on the need-blind vs need-aware aspect. “Guarantees to meet full need to international transfers” is what you need. I would only apply to the schools you list if they confirm that they meet that requirement, even if they claim they are need blind.