AI is more useful when you provide it more information. For example – give it some specific parameters.
“I’m looking for a college in an rural(suburban/urban) area with less than 5,000 students and a admission rate under 20%. Must have political science major with a strong academic reputation. Geographic region - northeast, central Atlantic, great lakes region. Ask me additional questions if needed before answering.”
If you do that - not only is AI more useful, but your list is more useful.
If you really JUST want prestige - you could google and use Niche or Princeton review lists of top SLAC (and not waste resource).