@just123098 Tufts maybe…didn’t you say IR? They are really good with those sorts of majors. I suppose Penn would be strongest for CS, but it looks like Tufts is really where your heart and mind is and is also just known to be extremely strong in one of your areas of interest (whereas none of the above is particularly exceptional at CS at the UG level. They are typically known to be different levels of decent or good I guess). When you choose one elite with extremely strong programs in your area of interest (if that is your major concern) then they are likely known for their strength because they have similar qualities (or are better/more interesting or innovative) than programs at schools that are generally considered more elite.
Vanderbilt: Those are kind of unfair conclusions. That is often the nature of Greeklife at MOST (if not ALL) schools. Vanderbilt is not particularly special there (it seems like you are complaining about behavior of some Greeks and lesser so it being a large social scene. I feel as if obnoxious people who overdo it can easily be avoided at any school). Also, if you stayed there before, then less of your opinion should be based upon what you see on here. Use the visitation program to actually seriously observe and make your own opinion. It seems kind of like you had some ideas or biases in your head and looked for them. If you can avoid that next visit, do so. Maybe sit in some of the classes or explore different social venues/hang out with a different crowd next time. You have to be careful on brief college visits to not project pre-conceived notions of the school. Think about the opportunities it can provide in your areas of interest.
Harvard: It is intense, but I definitely would not say cut-throat. I feel that is something folks throw around a lot for it and thus I imagine one would tend to look for it if they are there. Unless you will be a pre-professional (especially pre-health) Harvard (and maybe most schools acused of being overly competitive) probably unfairly earns that reputation (as does JHU). I am a fan of its academic intensity in several disciplines (only this school turns CS50 into a phenomenon, and I don’t know who isn’t a fan of the networking). However, if it isn’t for you, then it just isn’t for you I suppose.