One other factor for MIT and history majors, MIT has a very strong study abroad options. This would be perfect for a history major to get exposed to more history majors, to study in Europe, possibly, and the Wellesley cross registration would also be helpful. An example of going to a school that is small in your major: I have a good friend who studied physics at Rollins College, with only three other physics majors, Rollins is strong in theatre, history, English and biology, but not very strong in physics. He supplemented his education by going to a science semester at Oak Ridge National Labs. He got into MIT, studied materials science, and became an engineer, with a liberal arts degree from Rollins College. He says the reading and writing education at Rollins sets him apart. A history major from MIT is unusual too, and that may pay off down the road. its about fit, for college, does the OP fit at MIT, and wiling to take a year of science to get the degree.