<p>You were able to justify your decision with first-hand experience and a great deal of introspection with regards to your personal wants and life goals: it was a sensible one, congrats!</p>
<p>Stanford’s West Coast location is the chief reason that I would turn it down (if I have the luxury to do so in the future). I hope the perceived “arrogance” wasn’t one of yours for turning it down, though. It so happens that kids at the top schools have a reason to be proud of their achievements and where they’ve gotten in life. They may be proud, and exude self-confidence and charisma… perhaps that was a little different and intimidating?</p>
<p>Anyway, good luck!</p>