I’m a high school senior and I’m trying to chose between two schools-- UCSB and Lewis and Clark College. I know they’re both really different (public vs private, California vs Oregon, large vs small) but I genuinely like both of them and think they both have really good things to offer. I know probably ever detail about their academics, spots, dorms, anything I can find on their websites and other places online, but without in-person campus visits, I’m having a lot of trouble getting a feel for what they’re actually like. Might be a long shot, but does anyone have any insight to either of the schools that might help push me in one direction or the other?
How much can u afford?
I got enough financial aid that the price isn’t a huge factor, lc is still the more expensive option but not by a whole lot
Are you more energized among crowds or among a group of close friends?
Do you want a big party scene or a more subdued one?
Do you want small, interactive classes where everyone must come prepared or would you rather sit in a lecture hall, taking notes and being slightly anonymous?
What would you major in?
I prefer being with close friends. I had a pretty subdued high school experience and only really hung out with smaller groups so I’m not totally sure which scene I’d end up liking, but I don’t think I would enjoy those stereotypical giant parties that I know are a part of the UCSB campus. Interacting in class has never been my strong suit but I’m not opposed to being forced out of my comfort zone about it, and I’m still undecided in my major but something in social sciences or humanities, maybe psychology or sociology.
Sounds like Lewis&Clark would work better for your personality then.
There will be parties and there’s a city next door, but the format is more interactive so that even shy students participate and learn to like it. But there’s no hiding in a class with 18 or 19 others 
so slacking is more difficult and if you don’t speak up, the professor will have a question ready for you each session. On the other hand, it’s a bit easier to speak in a small group where you know everyone because you meet 3 times a week, than in a group of 30 that meets once a week (“discussion” or “recitation” at large universities).