Big Ten Schools?

So, I keep hearing about these 'Big Ten' schools. Can someone please provide me with a list for reference? What makes them special or unique and why should I consider any of them?

You're referring to the Big Ten Conference which is primarily a grouping of American colleges for athletic purposes, but the member schools are also well respected in academic circles. Here's a list of all 14 institutions (note that the name "Big Ten" is historic; there are more than ten schools in the conference now).

1. University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign

2. Indiana University Bloomington

3. University of Iowa

4. University of Maryland, College Park

5. University of Michigan

6. Michigan State University

7. University of Minnesota, Twin Cities

8. University of Nebraska–Lincoln

9. Northwestern University

10. The Ohio State University

11. Pennsylvania State University

12. Purdue University

13. Rutgers University

14. University of Wisconsin–Madison

In terms of what makes them special or unique, the Big Ten conference schools are known for their strong academic programs, research, public service, and for fielding competitive athletic teams (especially in football and basketball). They also tend to have larger student populations, which can offer a wide array of resources, extracurricular activities, and diversity in study programs. Remember, the best school for you would depend on your specific preferences, academic interests, financial considerations, and long-term goals.

For instance, if you're interested in journalism, Northwestern University has one of the top journalism schools in the country. If you're into engineering or technology, Purdue University is renowned for its programs, with Neil Armstrong being among its alumni. And the University of Michigan is known for its strong programs across a variety of fields, including business, engineering, and the social sciences.

Additionally, schools in the Big Ten conference offer a vibrant campus life enriched by culture, sports, and a variety of student organizations. If you enjoy being part of a large, spirited student body with a profound sense of school pride, particularly around athletics, then you might enjoy attending a Big Ten school.Ultimately, it's down to your goals for both academics and college experience. You should consider these factors carefully when deciding if a Big Ten school is right for your college experience. It's always recommended to visit the campuses if possible, or do some research online about each school and its culture, curriculum, and opportunities.