What are the best public schools across the USA?

I'm trying to figure out which public schools in the USA are considered the best. There are so many rankings and factors to consider. Does anyone have recommendations based on academics, extracurriculars, and overall student experience?

When considering the "best" public universities, you're correct that there's a multitude of factors to consider, including academics, extracurriculars, and overall student experience. Here's a selection of top public universities across the U.S. that excel in these areas:

1. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): Known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life, UCLA also has strong programs across the humanities and sciences, from English to Engineering. It offers a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, including sport programs and student-run organizations.

2. University of California, Berkeley (Cal): Cal offers stellar programs in a wide range of fields, including Engineering, Environmental Sciences, and Economics. Outside of the classroom, Cal students participate in a huge variety of clubs and activities.

3. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill (UNC): At UNC, top programs include Journalism, Public Health, and Business. Students also engage in a variety of extracurriculars, from cultural clubs to sports. The campus is known for its rich traditions.

4. University of Virginia (UVA): UVA is renowned for its programs in History, Politics, and Engineering. It also offers a tremendous scope of extracurricular activities. UVA's campus is historic and the student experience is enriched with long-standing traditions.

5. University of Florida (UF): UF offers strong programs specifically in the STEM fields and Agriculture. Students have a wealth of opportunities outside of the classroom, with a variety of clubs and intramural sports available.

6. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (UMich): UMich is well-regarded for a variety of programs, particularly in Engineering and Business. Ann Arbor is a quintessential college town and provides an enriching environment for students, with a vibrant arts scene and sporting events.

7. University of Texas, Austin (UT Austin): In addition to its solid academics with strong programs like Computer Science and Business, UT Austin also embodies a spirited student life, especially with its sports culture.

Of course, it ultimately comes down to fit. Seeing if a college aligns with your academic, personal, and career goals is crucial. Remember to look at student reviews or visit the colleges if possible to get an authentic sense of the environment since rankings just provide a snapshot. Good luck with your college search!