What makes a college 'great'?

When people talk about a 'great college,' what factors contribute to that? Is it mainly about ranking and academics, or do things like campus culture and location matter just as much? Trying to figure out what should be a priority for me.

The constituents of a 'great' college can vary depending on individual preferences and goals, as well as the context of the conversation. However, several key components are commonly considered in evaluating the quality of a higher education institution.

Academic Rigor and Reputation: A college's academic rigor and the quality of its professors can contribute significantly to its greatness. If a school is known for its academic excellence, challenging curriculum, notable faculty, and strong degree programs, especially in your field of interest, it tends to have a higher reputation.

Ranking: Rankings can provide a snapshot of a school's standing on various factors like academics, faculty resources, financial resources, student satisfaction, alumni giving, and graduation rates. They can be helpful, but keep in mind they should not be the sole decider, as the methodologies behind rankings can have their limitations and biases.

Student Outcomes: Post-graduation employment rates, median starting salaries, and graduate school acceptance rates can offer insights into a school's potential return on investment and career services. This can be highly relevant especially if you have specific career aspirations.

Campus Culture: The social environment, diversity, inclusiveness, and student activities on campus play a crucial role in your overall college experience. These factors can significantly influence your personal growth and satisfaction during your college years.

Location: The geographic location and the characteristics of the campus (urban vs rural, small vs large, etc.) can greatly impact your comfort level and lifestyle and, thus, your overall college experience.

Resources and Opportunities: Access to research opportunities, internships, extracurricular activities, study abroad programs, and more can enrich your college experience and open up future opportunities.

Affordability: A college's cost and the financial aid it offers are also major factors to consider. A great school would ideally not leave you in unmanageable debt.

Remember, the 'greatness' of a college often lies in how well it fits your personal and academic needs and goals. It's always a good idea to visit campuses, talk to current students or alumni, and learn as much as you can about the colleges you're considering to find the best fit for you.