<p>BTW - when I mentioned the stereotypes, I wasn’t agreeing with or condoning them, just reporting what I hear.</p>
<p>Another advantage at UMass Amherst is that you can take classes at the other schools in the consortium. Don’t know the details, but probably someone here does.</p>
<p>And as for the “middle of nowhere” one, it depends on perspective. My d. looked at another school in the Amherst area, liked it, but didn’t like the setting. It helped her understand that her preference was for a more urban setting, if she could get it. So for some, the area is a “lively college scene” and for others it seems more “pocket of activity in an otherwise rural area”. </p>
<p>Maybe spend a couple of days in the area, get a feel for it. It’s certainly a beautiful area.</p>