Yes, you had the Dayton’s of the world…and then IU and Michigan State.
My daughter came down to College of Charleston and U of SC - and we live in TN - go figure.
She chose Charleston as it’s mid size, the city is fantastic, and she’s in a cohort program of 12 within Honors whereas at U of SC just in Honors.
Everything about Charleston was great - except one thing. Lack of school spirit - because they don’t have a football team. So I get it. Also, it’s 2/3 girls and I think my daughter worried about that. Still she chose the best fit.
The outcomes at Bentley (and Babson) are strong. But your son’s feeling is a legit concern.
Most consider Kelley an elite school - it’s not - but it’s in that next tier - it’s strong. Most consider IU gorgeous - it’s very nice. Most consider Bloomington a great college town. Honestly, I don’t see that - it’s not that nice and it’s sort of in the middle of nowhere but only an hour from Indy.
You won’t go wrong, really at any school - but the Palm Trees have allure.
I just read the U Spring admission FAQ - they don’t guarantee housing, I assume no merit aid? Doesn’t come off very nice - to me. Doesn’t mean how it is.
The good thing is you have great options!!
One other thing to consider - we all spend gazillions of hours analyzing, visiting, and trying to find the right fit. But it’s best not to get emotionally attached - to anywhere. Why? You find the perfect school - but have a bad roommate, professor you can’t understand, whatever. You could go to the least desirable school on your list - and meet your b44.
Even with all the analysis, it’s all a crapshoot.
Good luck.