If you want to make sure you get a balanced, traditional liberal arts education, choose a school with many requirements. If you simply despise some subjects, opt out of required courses. Check to see if the school offers what you are interested in, and see how easy it is to switch from one department to another if you change your mind. Be sure to find out how many professors teach in your department and how many courses are offered in the average year. Also find out about options for double or triple majors.
Minors are coherent courses of study, usually involving far fewer courses than a major.
Some schools also offer certificate programs. Both minors and certificate programs are always in addition to a major. If you know you have a second interest, choose a school that requires a minor. Otherwise, opt for optional. Find out about options for pursuing your own research.