Capital University in Columbus is a private institution with real standing—especially for law (legitimately strong) and music conservatory (nationally recognized). The campus is small enough that you're not a number, large enough to offer actual resources. Columbus itself is an underrated college town with genuine culture and job opportunities.
The religious affiliation (Methodist) is present but not dominating. The student body is engaged, the campus is beautiful, and there's a real sense of community here. If you want law school, the connections run deep. If you're studying music, you're in an actual conservatory with serious facilities.
Capital punches above its weight. It's not an Ivy, but it's legitimate education with real outcomes, especially if law or music is your focus.