<p>I have a new freshman at St. Mary’s (day two!) and I think it is as strong in liberal arts as the Jesuit schools. My guy is also stronger in the humanities than in math or science.</p>
<p>The UCs and CSUs are much more difficult to get into now. Some of my son’s senior classmates did not get into UCSB and UCI when they thought they would given strong GPA’s, but t’s much more competitive now. </p>
<p>My advice is to have him apply broadly and continue refining what he likes/dislikes about various colleges. When the acceptances roll in, he can narrow it down and go from there. And hopefully his parents will let him decide the best choice for him and not for them.</p>