Forbes Rigorous Colleges - Valid?

I saw a list on Forbes about the most rigorous colleges. Any thoughts on how true this ranking is? Does rigor really correlate with future success, and should it be a major factor in my decision-making process?

Certainly, article rankings like Forbes' List of Most Rigorous Colleges strive to deliver valuable information and can provide a general perspective. However, it is critical to remember that "rigor" can be subjective; what may be considered difficult in one school might not be seen as such in another, and vice versa. A school's level of rigor may be influenced by a multitude of factors including its academic programs, faculty, and student body's intellectual aptitude.

Regarding the correlation between academic rigor and future success, it is crucial to note that while challenging coursework can help students grow and effectively communicate complex ideas, it does not necessarily guarantee success in every context. Often, soft skills - such as adaptability, leadership, or emotional intelligence - can influence an individual's future trajectory. Moreover, personal motivation and work ethic are also important factors in achieving success.

When it comes to choosing a school, rigor is a factor to consider but it shouldn't be the primary decision-making criterion. You should also focus on school culture, location, available resources, job placements, major offerings, and the unique opportunities each school provides. You want your college to prepare you effectively for your future but also to be a place where you can thrive, enjoy yourself, and meaningfully engage with your peers and professors.

As an example, if you aim to become an engineer and you're considering a very rigorous engineering program at a college, you might want to also consider the support services offered, like study groups or academic counseling. You might also want to look at where alumni end up after graduation — are they getting jobs in their field, and are they at companies or in roles you aspire to? These factors should weigh into your decision as well.