Sweet Briar is (was?)an all-girls’ school. Now that it’s closing, I think only two are left in the state.
She probably was the exception. Her roommate was a girl from California who believed in everything and nothing, and who was very politically correct. The girl had posters of Hindu gods, statues of Buddha, etc.
There is a follow-on issue for students; I know of guys who think twice about marrying a girl (and inheriting her tuition debt) as that is a large burden.
Less guys see college as a place hospitable to them (”rape culture” being one of those college themes).
Why pay to be hit over the head (metaphorically) and why marry a girl with heavy debt — curbing family and home and enjoying a growing standard of living.
Best of luck you your niece. She has the benefit of having her head on her shoulders, even without Buddha helping her out.