How do Virginia state colleges stack up in rankings?

I'm trying to get a sense of how Virginia state colleges are perceived, especially in terms of their rankings. As a junior in high school, I've been thinking a lot about where I might want to apply, and Virginia has a lot of options. If anyone has insight or experience with Virginia state colleges like UVA, Virginia Tech, or any others, I'd love to hear how they're ranked and regarded, both academically and in terms of student life.

Virginia is home to some highly esteemed public colleges and universities that are well-regarded both academically and in terms of student life.

University of Virginia (UVA) is generally considered one of the best public universities not only in the state but also nationally. Known for its strong programs in business, law, and liberal arts, UVA often ranks in the top 3 of public universities in the United States. There's also a rich history and tradition at UVA that contributes a lot to the campus culture. You'll find a lot of rigorous academic programs here, a lively student life, and a beautiful campus.

Virginia Tech, on the other hand, is renowned mainly for its engineering and architecture programs, though it also has strong offerings in agriculture, business, and the sciences. It usually ranks within the top 30-35 among public universities nationally. Football and other sports also play a big part in campus culture, so if you're looking to join in on that excitement, you might like what you see at Virginia Tech.

William & Mary is another strong choice. As the second oldest institution of higher education in the U.S., it's deeply rooted in history. Known for maintaining high academic standards, it typically ranks within the top 10-15 among public universities. It also offers an excellent liberal arts education, has a strong sense of community, and is recognized for its commitment to undergraduate teaching.

James Madison University has a broad range of strong academic programs, but has particularly well-regarded education, health sciences, and business programs. JMU is known for its vibrant campus life, and is often ranked within the top 3 "Best Public Regional Universities in the South" by U.S. News.

George Mason University is another solid choice, especially known for its strong programs in economics and government and politics related fields. It's the largest public university in Virginia and offers a more urban campus experience as it's located in the D.C. metropolitan area.

The College of William & Mary, George Mason University, James Madison University, and Virginia Commonwealth University are some other options that are well-regarded in specific areas.

Keep in mind that rankings can be helpful in getting a general idea of a college's strengths, but they are far from the only thing to consider when choosing a college. A better fit for you might be a lower-ranked college that matches your specific academic interests and personal preferences more closely.