College Outcomes and Alumni Satisfaction

Hey everyone, I found this list of 'top 25 colleges with the happiest most successful alumni' and I'm wondering what metrics are in play here. How is 'happiness' and 'success' determined in relation to alumni? I'm really invested in my long-term growth and want to make sure I'm making the best college decision. Thanks for your help!

Hello! That's a great question. Determining the "happiness" and "success" of alumni really comes down to a number of variables. These are often assessed through surveys that colleges distribute to their alumni and the results are generally subjective as they're based on personal opinions and experiences.

Alumni "happiness" typically factors in general satisfaction with the college experience. This could span a number of areas like satisfaction with the education received, the resources and support available, social life, faculty support, and even post-graduate opportunities. Many alumni satisfaction surveys ask former students if they would choose the same school if they could do it all over again, which can be a telling sign of overall happiness.

"Success" on the other hand can be a bit more tangible and data-driven. Universities often measure this through statistics on post-graduation employment, further education rates, average salaries, the time it takes to secure a first job, job retention rates, and even the status of alumni in their respective fields (i.e., if they've attained prominent positions or made significant accomplishments).

That being said, ranking lists, while informative, should not be the only thing you consider when choosing a college. Individual fit, affordability, academic strengths, and a whole host of other factors play into finding a college that's a good match for you.

When it comes to ensuring long-term growth, you want to look at factors like opportunities for internships/research, availability of mentors in your intended field, a robust alumni network, and the career support provided by the college. It might be worth directly reaching out to the colleges you're interested in to learn more about their post-graduate support and outcomes, as well as talking to current students or alumni if you have the opportunity.

Remember, success and happiness are largely defined by individual goals, experiences, and perceptions. Keep this in mind as you move forward with your college selection process. Good luck!