<p>Miami is really not considered a midwest “Ivy”. It is considered to be a state school that students often choose because they don’t want a really huge state university. It does have a good focus on undergraduate education and throws a lot of money out to attract better students. It has a very big drinking scene (but where doesn’t?) and is considered very white bread and preppy. As one frequent poster on this site will tell you ad nauseam, it’s worth going there if you can save a bunch of money that can be used for professional or graduate school. </p>