<p>I think Oberlin sounds perfect for you. The academics are as challenging as at any of the other colleges on your list–I’m not sure what gave you the impression otherwise. Oberlin students do not compete with each other–they’re anything but cutthroat–but they take their work very seriously and are highly self-motivated. To get a sense of what they’re like, take a look at [Oberlin</a> Blogs](<a href=“http://blogs.oberlin.edu/]Oberlin”>http://blogs.oberlin.edu/) if you haven’t already.</p>
<p>And specifically on music opportunities for non-Con students:
[Oberlin</a> Blogs | Blog Entry: “Opportunities for College Musicians”](<a href=“http://blogs.oberlin.edu/applying/applying/opportunities_f.shtml]Oberlin”>http://blogs.oberlin.edu/applying/applying/opportunities_f.shtml)</p>