I’ve narrowed down my college choice to the 3 schools above but I’m finding the decision fairly tough.
I plan on pursuing a PhD after college so I’m concerned more with program quality (and reputation) and research opportunities/quality. Cost is less of a concern.
If you would like to make a pure tech play, look to RPI. However, Colgate would be equivalently excellent for physics, probably better for accessible lab facilities, and more academically balanced across other disciplines.
With respect to an external source, note that RPI and UIUC appear in U.S. News for their faculty mentored research opportunities:
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/undergrad-research-programs