<p>@nynightowl Thank you SO much. That is exactly what I needed to get me started- a more inside perspective on these schools. Thanks also for the advice about youtube videos and newspapers. And I have heard of Swarthmore, but I guess I just didn’t get a good impression from my cousin, who visited and said the campus was lifeless on a beautiful day (maybe the overworked thing?) and as you said, it seemed to have less of an outdoorsy vibe. I will definitely check it out though! I am applying to Colorado College and some west coast schools as well, but I’d like to apply to at least a few in New England so I have options (if I get into them, that is). </p>
<p>Thanks @momrath for the perspective on Williams as well. I suspected it had kind of a “preppy” culture but from what you’re saying it sounds like I might fit in there! Thanks so much for the advice. </p>
<p>@MrMom62 I’ll probably end up applying to 2-3 of these, as I don’t want to waste money on application fees for schools I don’t want to go to. Thanks for the insight on Hamilton. I actually know one of the Outdoor Program directors there, who of course recommended it strongly. Seems like there is both a preppy/drinking culture and a more relaxed/outdoorsy culture there maybe? As for Skidmore, I don’t know much about it either, my aunt suggested it to me. I’ll have to do some research and maybe it could be a match or safety school.</p>
<p>@jkeil911 I am applying for financial aid, but we will see what happens. My parents are committed to paying for college, but I doubt I’d go to any of these schools if we didn’t get at least some sort of aid. @ Running the net price calculator is definitely something I have to do. And it does break my heart to think of skiing anywhere but Colorado haha! Guess I am spoiled, but I do know that many of these colleges are in beautiful environments with lots to do and lots to offer, so I think it’s worth it to check them out.</p>
<p>Thanks everyone for such great responses. It was a big help!</p>