What makes an American university prestigious?

I'm trying to understand what factors make a university in the U.S. stand out. Is it just about rankings or are there other things I should consider, like alumni network or campus resources?

There are quite a few factors that contribute to a university's prestige. Here's a broad overview of some main contributing categories:

1. Academic Reputation: This is typically reflected in national and global rankings, which take into account things such as faculty qualifications, research output, and academic rigor. It looks at the quality of the university's programs, the breadth and depth of its course offerings, and the nature of its research.

2. Selectivity: Prestigious colleges often have lower admission rates, meaning that they're more selective and have high standards for admitting students. This can be measured by looking at the incoming students' average GPAs and standardized test scores (for schools not test-blind).

3. Faculty: The caliber and reputation of a university's faculty can enhance its prestige, especially if the faculty includes well-known scholars, researchers, or industry leaders.

4. Alumni Network: Universities with notable alumni often gain recognition and prestige. These alumni could be leaders in their field, successful entrepreneurs, or even public figures and celebrities. A strong alumni network can provide networking opportunities for students and signal a high-quality education.

5. Resources: This includes campus facilities, research opportunities, funding for student projects, and job placement services. The amount of resources a university can dedicate to enriching student experiences can be indicative of its prestige.

6. Financial Endowment: Universities with large endowments are often considered prestigious because they have the financial ability to support robust programs, attract top faculty, and offer generous scholarships or financial aid packages.

These are just some of many factors. Different people will prioritize different things depending on their goals and values, so prestige does not always reflect the quality of education a specific student can receive at a university. The best university for a student is one that best aligns with their academic, personal, and career goals.