<p>For small schools with strong academics, Bowdoin, Holy Cross, Williams, Amherst, Davidson. Holy Cross would be the easiest of that group and at 2900 students the largest. HC also meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. Ranked 25th by US News, Holy Cross has DIV1 sports that compete against Ivies. Davidson also has Div1 basketball. Amherst, Williams and Bowdoin-all rural locations, while HC is 1 hour from Boston. Davidson not far from Charlotte.</p>