<p>Trying to bring this back to the OP’s questions after some battling posts between our welcome visiting alums from Northwestern (SAY) and Brandeis (B77):</p>
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<li><p>Without rehashing, I’ll second the detailed, excellent points about Carleton made by dietcokewithlime</p></li>
<li><p>I’ll add that I view the administration as extremely accessible by comparison to virtually any university. Compared to other LACs? Probably more visible than most, at least as responsive.</p></li>
<li><p>General advice, SSTGO27: The three schools outside of Carleton you’re considering are unusual in that they are all pretty niche and, for the most part, niche in different ways. As you say, for the right person, potentially a great niche, a great fit. Brandeis is under-recognized, in my opinion, for its excellent academics. But even by standards of the economic downturn today, it has been very publicly hurting financially in a disproportionate way. Hampshire I know only in context of its membership in the group of 5 and very (very) liberal reputation. I’m guessing you didn’t support McCain in the last election. New College is an unusual place I had read a bit about because of its unique qualities. Make sure you’re comfortable with its very small size and working relationship with USF. I know the school’s posted unusually low 6 year graduation rates - I’d suggest you confirm this and, if accurate, try to find out why - often a red flag.</p></li>
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<p>Good luck. Kudos for the creative considerations. Nobody will ever accuse you of coming up with another boring college list.</p>