Which US universities have the most successful students?

I'm interested in attending a university known for producing successful graduates. Are there any schools in the US that stand out for having a high number of successful alumni or excellent career placement rates?

Defining "success" can be a bit subjective, as it could mean various things to different people - financial wealth, high job placement, social impact, etc. That being said, many universities in the U.S. have a strong reputation for producing successful graduates.

Universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and the University of California--Berkeley, for example, are often highly regarded for their strong professional networks, rigorous academic programs, and a wide range of pioneering research opportunities. These universities have produced numerous leaders in various fields and continue to hold strong teaching and research reputations globally.

On the business side, schools like the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School and Cornell University have standout business programs known for a high number of graduates going into high-paying industries like finance and consulting.

For engineering disciplines, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) are renowned. These schools have consistently produced graduates who've made significant contributions to their fields.

One way to gauge success is by looking at the school's career placement rate. For example, the University of Notre Dame boasts an impressive career placement rate, with 90% of its students finding employment or enrolling in graduate school within six months of graduation. Harvey Mudd College also touts a high placement rate and features graduates with some of the highest starting salaries in the U.S.

Keep in mind that a student's success is not solely determined by the institution they attend. Many factors contribute to a student's success, such as their personal determination, network, skill set, experiences, and more. Therefore it's essential to consider the overall fit — including academic programs, campus culture, location, etc., — while making your college decision.