<p>DougBetsy – I’m not sure where in the Baltimore suburbs you live, but we picked up my daughter at Lafayette over Easter and drive down to the Towson area. It took a little under 3 hours (I admit I drive a couple miles over the speed limit). We took the NE Extension of the PA Turnpike and I-476 down, by-passing Philly on the west side. This is generally quicker than going through New Jersey, although if you encounter a back-up due to an accident it can even out. On the other hand, I have been caught in some monumental traffic jams trying to get over the Delaware Memorial Bridge over holiday weekends so you can face extended delays either way.</p>
<p>BTW, Lafayette offered two merit scholarships until last year: the $16K Marquis and the $8K Trustee. The Trustee Scholarship was eliminated for the Class of 2013, but the question of restoring it or established (a) new merit scholarship(s) was left open.</p>
<p>I think the long grass was a result of too many rainy days. I saw the same thing at Amherst yesterday and that campus, like Lafayette, is usually impeccably manicured. I wouldn’t be surprised, however, if mowing schedules are adjusted as a cost savings measure this year. Better to scale back there, and to defer capital spending as has been announced, than in areas that directly impact the quality of education.</p>
<p>Thanks for your report. I thought it was pretty objective and regarding selectivity – it should not be a factor in choosing a college. Lafayette may be somewhat more selective, but differences in SAT range between the four schools you mentioned are negligible and, I would assert, have no bearing on what goes on in the classroom. All four schools have distinct personalities and a discerning student should be able to figure out where they feel most comfortable.</p>