I like these ideas. To most new players, they simply don't know what they are selecting. Some pictures or track descriptions would go such a long way towards helping newer players understand which track is which. Infact, I'm unsure on some of the combo's and such.
Course fees have gone up sure, but with a student loan, you dont pay them off till after Uni. The costs are just your living costs, such as rent and food etc.
I've heard similar stories, from the University Guide 2005. Although the University was rated as Uni of the Year in the guide, the social scene was bad - as you have mentioned. Its more of an academic choice for me than anything else.
Newey isnt the end all, be all technical director. Sure, he's been damn successful, and he is highly regarded, but lets not put it past anyone else to do his job.