Serious colleges and universities?

<p>I’ve been doing a bit of research and really have learned quite about many colleges and how I feel about them. I know what I what in a college, the only problem is that I can’t really match myself to one, maybe somebody can help me?
Most importantly in a college, I want an environment that is very serious about what it teaches, not only is the school serious, but the students too. Another characteristic that I’m going to include now, is just a preference for the larger schools.
Yes, I know this is a hard combination, but what I’m asking, is what colleges seem best suited for me? Obviously you don’t know any of my stats, so I’ll just say that I’m a good to excellent student. Although I do have a chance at the highest schools, I probably won’t get into Ivies or schools in that high caliber, but I can get into schools that are close, as in top 20+ Any recommendations?</p>

<p>What about Washington University? It’s really academically-focused as near as I can tell. Also check here: http://**************.com/rankings/academics/</p>

<p>Oops, I don’t know what went wrong… I guess you’re not supposed to do that! Well, Northwestern, UPenn, Emory, USC, UCs, particular programs at state schools</p>

<p>Can you afford OOS public Us? They can run to $60K/year.</p>