Political Ideologies in College

I've seen that USNWR ranks most conservative and liberal colleges. I believe political climate does affect campus life to some degree. So, does being listed as a 'conservative' or 'liberal' college fundamentally change the student experience? How significant is the political leaning factor when choosing a college and how does it impact campus culture, discussions, guest speakers, etc?

You're correct in observing that a campus's political climate can impact a student's college experience to an extent. Generally, political ideals can influence the culture of a school, the types of discussions held there, and even the sorts of guest speakers that are invited. A college labeled as 'liberal' might host a variety of different events reflecting liberal values, organize rallies for social justice causes, or invite a liberal-leaning figure for guest lectures, while a school leaning 'conservative' might kick start initiatives reflective of conservative ideologies, host business-focused or traditional campus events, or invite speakers known for their conservative viewpoints.

While political climate can be a factor in the overall college experience, the impact varies for each individual. For instance, if a student is very passionate about their political ideology and seek to be in a community with similar views, attending a college that aligns with that ideology could enhance their college experience. On the contrary, students who view college as a platform to challenge their own beliefs and gain various perspectives would find a contrasting political climate more enriching.

On the flip side, it is also crucial to remember that universities are diverse places filled with students, faculty, and staff from all sorts of backgrounds with an array of political viewpoints — this is often true regardless of how a university is rated on the liberal-conservative scale. Therefore, such labels should not be the sole determining factor in your decision process. It will still come down to what you want out of your college experience.

In terms of guest speakers, the political climate can also have an influence. A university with a prominent conservative reputation might invite speakers who are widely respected in conservative circles, and vice versa. However, many universities strive to expose students to a range of viewpoints. There's also a growing emphasis on diverse and inclusive campus practices which ensures exposure to multiple perspectives.

In conclusion, while political leaning does play a role in shaping campus culture and experiences, it's only one out of many factors to consider when choosing a college. It's always a good idea to research and visit the campuses (if possible) to get your own 'feel' for the environment and culture. Also, considering factors such as the quality of your chosen program, location, size, cost, and extracurricular activities are also integral to shaping your college experience.