Our daughter is a junior in high school, so we have begun touring colleges and universities with her. A few days ago, we visited Boston University. Moments after walking into the visitor's center on campus, we were greeted by a pleasant student who welcomed us and made us feel right at home. After a short wait, we were ushered into a small auditorium for a fantastic presentation by a member of the admissions office and a senior at BU from Uruguay. After that, we took a campus tour with a freshman from California who was both well-spoken and enthusiastic.

I have lived in Cambridge just across the Charles River from Boston University for most of my adult life. It's amazing to have such a strong academic institution so close to home. Yes, of course, there is Harvard and MIT. But there is also Boston University. And others. Lucky to live here.

We like Boston University. So does our daughter. We shall see.