UVA, Oberlin, Kenyon, or Bates?

Gypsyfish

UVA is regularly ranked among the top universities in the country. The others don't even come close. If you can get into UVA, go there. Second would be Oberlin. I've never even heard of the other two.

Prof. Cochise

All excellent academic institutions. If cost is not an object, look at majors offered, retention rates [% who graduate within 5 years], distance from home, and the general feel of the campus [activities, dorms, cafeteria food, etc.] FWIW, I'd choose Kenyon. It is regularly listed as one of the most beautiful campuses in the world.