Welcome! Another Carl parent here! My S is a freshman also interested in Cognitive Science! I also suggested Carleton to him initially. We visited Macalester and Carleton on the same trip. After our visit, he knew he would apply! He has great relationships with his professors, and finds his peers interesting, smart, funny and kind. The academic rigor is no joke but S seems to be managing and takes advantage of the many resources available…
Those on sports or academic teams do often travel off campus several weekends during the year. Son joined an academic team and has been to many college campuses & in the cities the past two weekends for competition. He has also been on weekend outdoor trips with the Canoe club. Just something to consider for those concerned about its small town location.