<p>If you truly do not want to be outside of a city for school, then I would not put Carleton or Oberlin on the list for their proximity to major cities-- the reality is that life at LACs is campus-centric, and that students will only go into those cities on rare occasions.</p>
<p>Having said that, if you are willing to add schools that meet your concern for vibe, but not size or location, then if you do consider Carleton, then my suggestion is to add Grinnell – it is a little more difficult to travel to (few direct flights to Des Moines as opposed to Minneapolis). Negatives for you about Grinnell would be size (it is small) but the culture you are looking for is there. Two blocks away is a small, quaint town with restaurants and a movie theater (so not that much different than Carleton). </p>
<p>The words that my son – and others used – when they made their decision to attend Grinnell is “these are my kind of people.” Students who are open and accepting, who value intellectual exchange and the free expression of individual identity. It’s considered a place for “quirky” kids not because everyone is offbeat, but because if you are, then you can feel comfortable showing that. There is not a sense that everyone is trying to be different, though, just that individuality is supported and welcomed.</p>
<p>Grinnell has a “self-governance” system which creates a unique campus community, tremendous funding for activities, and as diverse a student body as you will find at any LAC. It also has one of the highest percentages of students receiving FA of any LAC, and the needs-blind admissions policy is sacred to students. This is a school that really treasures its mission of providing equal and open access to higher education for qualified students. </p>
<p>Sorry this is turning into an ad for Grinnell! I guess I’m just trying to make a case for you, in the event that you decide to place higher priority on campus culture than on size or location… because if you do look at Carleton, you absolutely should also take a look at Grinnell.</p>