Funny comment about Clarkies. When we toured, we were so impressed at how empowered the kids were (they were running the tour office by themselves. Only the info session had a pro.) Everyone was so friendly, even just kids we passed. I have a friend who teaches chem there and loves the kids. Have other friends who worked there and enjoyed the time. I know some young grads and they loved it. Sure, that area isn’t perfect, but that’s true of many good colleges and most kids focus their time on campus.
Saratoga Springs is lovely, the little shops along the main street, the race horses. There are other social and SES issues in the town, just not as apparent. (D1 wanted to be involved in community service during college, so opportunities were something we checked.) The arts are very strong at Skid, it would have been a great match for D2.