<p>In terms of the subject of the thread: One can make it work practically anywhere, as long as one doesn’t run out of classes in the major. I think that the opportunity to take grad courses is well worthwhile, <em>after</em> the freshman year, so I think that research-intensive public universities are good choices. Colleges such as Harvey Mudd also have a lot to offer such a student, if the student prefers a smaller-college environment.</p>
<p>All of the usual suspects–Berkeley, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, UNC Chapel Hill–would work out ok for a strong student. (Out of state tuition is a problem at many, though.)</p>
<p>Even if Pizzagirl were not a strong supporter of Northwestern, I would mention it, Chicago, Duke, Cornell, Carnegie Mellon, and some others.</p>
<p>For scientists/engineers, I would suggest looking at the research instrumentation that is available, and the opportunities for students to work in labs. This becomes significant quickly, and the quality and accessibility both vary from place to place.</p>