Most Valued College Football Programs?

Hey everyone, I'm really passionate about football and was wondering if the value of a college's football program should factor into my decision making process, in terms of school spirit/resume boosts and things like that. I know some teams like Alabama and Notre Dame are super well known, but does a strong football program add something special to the college experience? Would love some perspective, thanks!

It's great that you're interested in college football! From an atmosphere perspective, having a strong football program could certainly add something special to the college experience. This can often affect the overall college culture as strong athletic programs tend to foster an environment of school spirit and communal camaraderie.

The enthusiasm around game days, particularly at schools with strong football programs, often involves a full-weekend of activities including tailgating, homecoming events and alumni gatherings. These engagements can create strong connections among students and a sense of belonging and pride in the college community.

However, in terms of direct benefits for students not playing on the team, boosts to resumes are generally limited unless you're working directly with the football program (think roles like sports marketing, team manager, or athletic trainer). Nonetheless, the networking opportunities provided by such popular programs should not be discounted, as they can often lead to connections with alumni in fields you might be interested in.

But remembering the core purpose of attending college, you should not base your decision solely on the strength of a school's football program. Academics, campus culture (aside from athletics), location, financial aid, and what subjects you want to study should also factor into your decision.

In any case, if football is a big part of your life and something you're passionate about, attending a school with a strong program could definitely enhance your overall college experience. So, it's worth considering, but make sure the academic and other aspects align with your goals as well.