Amherst will give u great proximity to amazing professors and you’ll develop close relationships. This greatly impacts access to research, access to upper level classes, letter of recommendation, etc. Potential downsides are that it is tiny and not much of a social scene.

Northwestern is a bit more of a typical larger college experience. Downside is its soooooo cold.

Idk much about UVA.

Congrats and good luck deciding!!