<p>I’m taking the SAT in January, but I took a practice SAT (not PSAT, but an actual SAT at this SAT prep course) and I got a 1830, and I have taken SAT prep in my lowest scoring subject (math). I plan on taking the SAT two times (for super-scoring). I will definitely consider Dickinson, Davidson, and Lafayette. Thank you!</p>
<p>How much merit aid do you need? At Dickinson the largest merit has historically been around $20K – but that still leaves a bill of about $40,000. Have you run any net price calculators (on school website financial pages) to see whether you are eligible for need based aid? What can your family actually afford?</p>
<p>Muhlenberg may be in your sweet spot. It’s a funny mix of kids who are pre-professional and theater kids. Lots of kids who are into making music and theater and dance. Not preppy. All different sorts of kids seem to get along. Very strong science programs and good success with med school placement. <a href=“Prehealth | Muhlenberg College”>http://www.muhlenberg.edu/main/academics/health_professions/</a> Has football, Greek scene does not dominate. Partying is certainly there but it is pretty chill and there is plenty to do besides party. Allentown is not the greatest location but the campus is pretty and you are between NYC and Philly and the Lehigh Valley has a lot to offer. There’s a cute coffee shop, a farmer’s market, grocery stores, a tavern, a diner and a Panera in walking distance so there is plenty to do right by campus. </p>
<p>And if you get strong SAT scores you should get good merit aid. <a href=“http://www.muhlenberg.edu/main/aboutus/finaid/applyingForAid/merit.html”>http://www.muhlenberg.edu/main/aboutus/finaid/applyingForAid/merit.html</a></p>
<p>Bringing up your scores will translate into money at most of these schools. You want to exceed the bar for admission to make yourself very attractive.</p>
<p>I think the most my family can afford is around 30-35,000 (because I also have to go to vet school afterwards). That’s why I am considering St. Mary’s, since the tuition counts as in-state for me. Does anyone know if it’s a good school, academically, and if the people are nice? </p>
<p>We visited St. Mary’s College of MD, I think it is kind of a hidden gem. It is VERY rural, though. But on a bluff above the river with sailboats, it feels almost like summer camp. You should visit and see what you think. We liked it a lot when we visited. My kid was thinking about a bio major at the time and sat in on a Bio class that she really enjoyed. </p>
<p>We have visited St. Mary’s and it is lovely. Very remote, on the water. Kids can borrow kayaks! Everyone we met seemed very nice. I think it has a bit of a “work hard-play hard” rep. I think being so remote probably contributes to a lot of partying on the weekends. I think it is a good school.</p>
<p>I will also tell you that with the merit aid you could get at Muhlenberg if you keep your grades up and rock the SAT, you can be at your price point. We were. 
If you can do it even cheaper at St. Mary’s, that might be worthwhile. But it is relatively expensive for a state school.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>William & Mary, U of Richmond. You might want to look at up and comer Christopher Newport Univ. And maybe Univ. of Mary Washington.</p>
<p>I liked St. Mary’s a lot; the campus was beautiful, and the people seemed nice. I was just worried that there might not be enough to do with such a rural town and small campus. </p>
<p>Goucher doesn’t have football (it was originally a women’s college), but it would probably satisfy most of your other requirements. They are not great about scholarships, but a strong showing this year might qualify you. </p>
<p>If you intend to go to Vet school then keep your UG costs as low as possible. The competition and costs are right up there with med school and the payback afterward not nearly as good.</p>
<p>Hobart and William Smith Colleges
Hamilton College
Randolph-Macon College
Greensboro College
Guilford College</p>
<p>might try Holy Cross(don’t have to be religious)-similar to Lafayette but much better location-only 1 hour from Boston. HC has no greek life a football team that plays 4 Ivies each year. Holy Cross has very good science program and meets 100% demonstrated finsancial aid. HC website is informative.</p>