I'm between Columbia and Brown for Neuroscience, although I also have broad interests ranging from community health to religion and religious history. Both schools are appealing and not appealing for me for different reasons. E.G. Providence seems more insular as compared to New York, Columbia is better ranked for my major, yet Brown has a better student culture, and I made friends immediately at admitted students day. Cost is about the same.
My overall impression is that Brown's undergraduate focus makes finding opportunities more accessible, but Columbia's resources provides a higher ceiling because of the opportunities that New York and more research funding offer. I also could see myself enjoying both the core and the open curriculum - I think I would choose to take classes in literature, history, and philosophy. Yet, I appreciate that at Brown I would have the aspect of flexibility within this, which would making changing or planning my major less difficult. also am intimidated by the idea of grade deflation of Columbia. I also liked Columbia's dorms better.
I don't know. Sorry, these thoughts aren't very organized. Please help.