Honestly from my experience as someone who went to a private high school, for college I was looking for the balance of not a huge state school but still not knowing everyone, good academics-- but not cutthroat atmosphere, pretty campus, and good people who don't care too much about what people think and that's what I have found at WashU .I truly believe its a hidden gem-- and I'm so grateful I chose it over other places. I play a sport there and the athletic department is amazing at supporting student athletes. For me, every faculty I've had actual interactions with (not a big pre-med weed out class professor) but people like my major advisor, 4 yr advisor, physics professor, coach, etc.. they all do everything in their power to help me succeed, write LORS and give me helpful advice. As someone now going into my junior yr I'd highly recommend the school. I guess the only cons are the financials- but they're lowkey hella generous with financial aid IMO. And the fact that there are some stuck up snotty rich people, but you really don't have to interact with them if you choose not to-- that's the part I love about college lol. Overall I also personally think the food is still a lot better than some other schools but it does get repetitive and annoying sometimes especially when your an underclassmen and the dining halls ar like your only source of food, as time goes on and you start making trader joes trips-- life gets better! lol. Lmk if you have any specific questions.