School of Mines? That is one tough place. Tougher than any ivy by far. New Mexico Tech in Socorro, Texas Tech, some programs at OU and Texas A&M. University of Texas at Arlington, there are numerous programs that are much tougher academically than any ivy offering. And that most of those you see a lot of solid citizens come out of them.
You are so right about it being hard. I remember during the sign in day for the freshman. The speaker commented . You student had high A’s or B’s at your other schools. But here you my see D’s and F’s. Want to party go to another school. You are here to learn!