<p>i’m going through the college search process with my son, and if i were to choose a school based on neighborhoods and surrounding areas and culture, i would not choose SLU. BUT, the campus is lovely and their programs are strong. I suspect they may also have strong connections to the Barnes/Jewish Hospital located in the same neighborhood (i’ve got a friend who graduated from SLU and now does research at BJM Hospital, which is affiliated with Wash U.) I currently live in St. Louis, next to Forrest Park and Wash U., which is filled with a wide range of people, from college students, to young professionals, to older folks. Forrest Park and the museums are also a nice diversion, but, it certainly does not have the typical college town feel, nor does it have the same kind of vibrant life of a Chicago or New York (where I have also lived). As for academics, SLU has a lot to offer. . . as for the city. . . . i don’t think it really adds to the college experience.</p>