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<p>That’s exactly why these schools are great “contrarian” choices for ORMs. ORMs aren’t ORMs at many LACs. Not only that, but in my opinion they can be objectively better colleges than their research university peers (as long as you don’t want engineering or some other program they don’t have). LACs tend to offer smaller classes, total focus on undergrads, and perhaps a more intellectual atmosphere (with fewer distractions from Greek and D1 sports activities and few/no pre-professional programs).</p>
<p>Look at where American college professors send their kids ([Where</a> Professors Send Their Children to College - CBS News](<a href=“http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505145_162-37244508/where-professors-send-their-children-to-college/]Where”>http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505145_162-37244508/where-professors-send-their-children-to-college/)). Look at which schools have the highest rates of PhD production ([COLLEGE</a> PHD PRODUCTIVITY](<a href=“http://www.reed.edu/ir/phd.html]COLLEGE”>Doctoral Degree Productivity - Institutional Research - Reed College)). Look at how many LACs are among top feeders to the most selective medical, law, and business schools
([IPCN</a> Library](<a href=“http://inpathways.net/ipcnlibrary/ViewBiblio.aspx?aid=1577]IPCN”>http://inpathways.net/ipcnlibrary/ViewBiblio.aspx?aid=1577)).</p>
<p>As for the issue of going to a college smaller than your high school, keep in mind that the demographics and talent levels will be completely different. A typical HS of 2000 students has maybe 25 “smart kids” who might share similar interests. A typical selective LAC of 2000 students has 2000 “smart kids” from all over the country.</p>