<p>I would suggest taking a look at Brown University. The graduate programs are relatively small, so undergraduates have access to phenomenal research opportunities. Math and applied math are some of the strongest departments, and neuroscience is unbelievably amazing here (often said to be the best undergraduate neuroscience program in the country). The classes are small, with great professors who know how to teach, and Providence is a pretty nice city (that said, New England weather can be pretty tough if you’re from Cali). </p>
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I felt exactly the same way when looking for colleges. From my experience, Brown students are cooperative, friendly, and genuinely passionate about learning. I refer you to this post <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/brown-university/385841-brown-curriculum-university-college-explained.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/brown-university/385841-brown-curriculum-university-college-explained.html</a> which I found to be extremely helpful when making my decisions (and explains everything much better than I would be able to). Good luck!</p>