There are two routes I see you going. Middlebury hands down has the perfect (not too preppy not too big, perfect liberal arts school) majors for you, specializing in those too, unlike the other 3 schools. Wesleyan and Vassar specialize in absolutely the opposite of these two interests which would be a deal breaker. If money is really an important thing, and seems especially enticing to your family, not to worry! I’d say in order of success for these majors and the great student, seeking a liberal arts education, you seem to be, it would go Middlebury then Brandeis, possibly Bowdoin. They are all great but I’d say Middlebury if money isn’t an issue, Brandeis if it is and Bowdoin if you decide to venture out of the box a bit to what is claimed as the best liberal arts college out there.