I have twin boys applying to colleges this year so we’ve come across lots of schools. The one I’d consider “friendliest” is Houghton University, in western NY. If you apply they send you a tossle cap. Admitted kids get this really sweet little party box. We haven’t visited yet, but the whole vibe seems really… nice. It’s not terribly “elite” in terms of selectivity, plus it’s really small. I think around 900 kids in a tiny rural town. Do it won’t be for everybody. But man, they seem nice.
Best example: My son’s acceptance letter didn’t just mention his essay. It discussed it. So I don’t think it was some AI algorithm.
Just really friendly.