I thought about Wash U, but there engineering department is nothing impressive, especially for the price tag that goes with it . .
Anyway, I've lived in Saint Louis for 17 years, and I know my way around pretty well. Wash U has a great location. Cross Skinker and you are in Forest Park, which is a fantastic place, huge park, great for walks, also has museums, zoo, science center, outdoor ice rink, etc. etc. Sledding, in the winter, best hills in Saint Louis. A short walk North of Campus is the U-city loop, a nice little hang out district with a fun theater, the Tivoli, that shows the cool movies you don't find elsewhere. The Hi Pointe, also an arthouse theater, is maybe 2 miles south of campus.
One place you need to check out is the City Museum. Crazy guy bought an abandoned warehouse and is in the process of turning it into a gigantic playground/3d maze. It's great fun.
There is a good music scene, too, the main venue probably is the Pageant, in the U-city loop. I go to shows more often at mississippi nights, in the landing (little hangout district next to the arch grounds on the waterfront.). There are a bunch of bars, a couple in the loop, that will stage good bands fairly often. We also have one of those giant venues for insanely popular bands, but its quite a drive to get to it. Don't remember what they are calling it these days.
Wash U is also pretty close to downtown Clayton, which is kinda a hangout, but has excellent food. Make sure you get to "India's Rasoi" at lest once, its one of my favorites. Also, a vietnamese place . . damn, forget the name.
Anywho, early welcome to Saint Louis. I'll probably be back in Houston when you are here, though.
edit: I don't know about the Jewish thing, but I'd imagine there is at least some truth to it. Haha, remember, saint louis is the Catholic Ghetto of the US of A. Another sight to see, even if you aren't religious, is the New Cathedral. Truly an impressive building.