Washington and Lee’s social life is completely dominated by Greek life. There was an interesting discussion about this on the parents forum that I think would be helpful when determining just how much frats and sororities influence W&L’s social sphere. It was comparing W&L to Bryn Mawr, which is a different discussion technically, but I think the points made are still pertinent. 80 - 90% Greek life participation in a small school will have control over the way the social climate operates at said school no matter what. Check it out here: http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/parents-forum/1760524-greek-life.html
As for the political climate…well, considering that half of their name comes from Confederate general Robert E. Lee, I think it’s probably a pretty conservative atmosphere, haha. All kidding aside, I think you’d be outnumbered when it comes to political views.
I’m actually considering Richmond as well, and even their Greek influence seems a little much for me. I’m also wondering if me being low-income at a school where most kids come from affluent families may affect me socially. Seems like we’re in a similar spot. I’m trying to contextualize my reservations by reminding myself that college is about academics first and experience second, but it’s hard.
Personally, I would recommend Richmond. W&L is a great school academically, but judging from the awards you received you’re already a very intrinsically motivated student who will do well at either school. College is what you make of it, and I don’t think Richmond is so far removed academically/rankings-wise from W&L that you have to sacrifice your entire college experience for the sake of prestige.
Best of luck, maybe I’ll see you in Richmond next year!