Most popular universities in the South?

I'm starting to think about college in the Southern U.S., and I'm wondering which universities are considered the most popular. Are there specific schools that are highly recommended or well-regarded?

Absolutely, there are quite a few universities in the Southern U.S. that are popular and hold high regard in both the academic world and with employers. Here are a few you might want to consider:

1. Duke University (North Carolina): This is a private institution known for its strong programs in Law, Business, and Medicine. Its campus is also noted for the Gothic architecture and extensive forested areas.

2. Vanderbilt University (Tennessee): This is a private research institution that's well-respected for its strong programs in education, nursing, and business. It is a need-blind school when it comes to financial aid decisions, meaning they do not consider your ability to pay when making admissions decisions.

3. University of Virginia (Virginia): A public institution with a strong emphasis on liberal arts. It's particularly well-regarded for its business and graduate programs.

4. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (North Carolina): This is a public institution and one of the oldest public universities in the U.S. It is renowned particularly for its programs in health, law, and journalism.

5. Rice University (Texas): This is a comprehensive research university with a high level of research activity and noted for its applied science programs.

6. University of Texas at Austin (Texas): This public research university is located in the heart of Austin, a city known for its vibrant music scene and tech industry. It's recognized for its business, engineering, and computer science programs.

Please remember, the most popular universities are not necessarily the best fit for you. Each of these institutions has its distinct culture, strengths, and offerings. It's essential to consider your own academic interests, career goals, and personal preferences when choosing a college. Furthermore, these are not the only highly-regarded universities in the South. There are many other notable universities both big and small, private and public, that could be an excellent fit for you.