Lake Forest College sits in one of Chicago's most affluent North Shore suburbs, and yes, the wealth is noticeable. This is a small liberal arts college with genuine intellectual engagement and a student body that's often well-traveled and sophisticated. If you succeed around ambitious, articulate peers, this is excellent.
The academics are rigorous without being cutthroat, and professors know students personally. Chicago is close enough for internships and culture without overwhelming the residential campus life. The campus itself is beautiful—manicured lawns, lake views, and the kind of Gothic architecture that makes you feel like you're learning something important.
The affluent vibe can feel exclusionary if you're coming from less wealth, but the college takes that seriously. Real financial aid means you're not just sitting around watching money you don't have. The alumni network is substantial and genuinely helpful for career development.