I'm in my 4th year but figured I'd answer--
1. Most classes don't have mandatory attendance. Some pod focused classes do. Need to be there if there are presentations, quizzes, exams, etc.
2. Yes. Laid back, supportive staff. Overall pretty fun. Felt like I was pretty well prepared for externships/rotations. Not a cut throat environment.
3. Lots of hiking nearby. Tons of metro parks that are close. Cuyahoga Falls/Akron/Cleveland has a lot of trails. There is a towpath within ~5 min of the school (towards Canal Rd).
4. Good relationships with other students. It gets better as the years progress. Big class sizes so plenty of opportunity to find the group you fit in best with. Lots of clubs. Lots of extracurricular activities. Running clubs and other active groups.
Let me know if you have any other questions! Good luck