Public universities worth considering?

I'm exploring options for public universities. What are some top public universities that offer a great balance of academics, campus life, and value? Any personal experiences that stood out?

There are a plethora of fantastic public universities to consider depending on your specific criteria like your intended major, campus culture preferences, and location. Here are some to think about:

1. The University of California, Berkeley and UC Los Angeles: They consistently rank highly for their strong academics across many disciplines, and have vibrant, diverse campus communities. These schools also provide generous financial aid packages for in-state students.

2. The University of Virginia and William & Mary in Virginia: These schools are known for their strong liberal arts focus and historical campuses. Both schools also have thriving Greek life if that's something you're interested in.

3. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor: Known for its strong programs in business and engineering, among others. Michigan has a big sports culture with its Division I football team and the vibrant college town of Ann Arbor offers lots of opportunities for socializing.

4. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: Another school strong in academics and has a friendly, collaborative atmosphere. Chapel Hill is also home to a great food scene and has beautiful surroundings.

Remember these schools can be quite competitive so make sure to also look at some less popular, but still very solid, public schools—think University of Iowa, SUNY Binghamton, Virginia Tech, etc. Public universities can truly offer an excellent education at a good value, particularly for in-state students. Perhaps you could also consider honors programs within larger public universities, they offer a "small college" experience within a bigger setting.

It's best as you continue your exploration to take virtual or, if possible, in-person tours to get a feel for the campus. If you can, speak to students or alumni about their experiences or find forums online where students discuss their experiences at these universities. It's one way to get a better idea of whether the school and community would be a good fit for you. Remember, rankings can guide your search but your fit with the school's environment, offerings, and culture should also be top priority.