Just reiterating the comments about LAC’s and research. My daughter attended a small LAC that is noted for their professor/mentor relationships. The professors are evaluated on encouraging students to participate in their research as early as freshman year. They also offer a freshman research grant. She had the opportunity to co-author, publish and present at conferences. She was in charge of the professor’s research while she was on sabbatical and trained the younger students in the lab. This relationship and networking was invaluable and is available to every student. She learned critical thinking skills, grant writing skills and received a solid education. Many LAC’s offer merit and financial aid that you may be unaware of.
You may want to look at New College, while it is small, it is a Florida public, so you will be able to take advantage of the State’s student aid programs for scholars.