Can someone recommend top liberal arts colleges in Boston, MA?

I'm a high school junior looking into liberal arts colleges in Boston, Massachusetts. I'd love to hear about which schools offer great programs and what the campus culture is like at these institutions.

While Boston is more famously home to research-oriented universities like Harvard and MIT, there are a number of great liberal arts focused institutions in the area.

Boston College, while not solely a liberal arts college, offers a strong core curriculum in the liberal arts for all of its students, and has a number of excellent programs. Known for its school spirit and vibrant campus community, many students appreciate its blend of a comprehensive academic experience and energetic social life.

Just a short ride away from Boston in Wellesley, MA, you have Wellesley College - one of the top women's colleges in the nation. It's a small, tight-knit community with a stunningly beautiful campus. The academic experience is rigorous, and students often speak highly of the individual attention and mentorship they receive from faculty. Plus, through a partnership with MIT, Wellesley students can also take classes there.

Similarly, located nearby in Medford-Somerville is Tufts University. It's known for its strong programs in international relations and political science, as well as its culture of active citizenship and public service. Tufts may not be a traditional liberal arts college, but like Boston College, its undergraduate education adheres to a liberal arts philosophy.

Though not technically in Boston, Brandeis University in Waltham is worth considering. It's a smaller research university with a commitment to the liberal arts and has a reputation for its programs in social justice.

Of course, the best fit will depend on your specific academic interests, desired college atmosphere, and other factors like financial needs. I would highly recommend visiting campuses (if possible) or exploring virtual tours to get a sense of the schools – remember, it's as much about how you feel at the college as the academics on offer.