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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]http://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/2012/09/11/methodology-undergraduate-ranking-criteria-and-weights-2

"Selectivity" is 15%, broken down into various components.  "Reputation" is a whopping 25%.  Such a large percentage for such a squishy element.  Things not measured:

1. Advising system.
2. Atmosphere -- competitive, cold or supportive?
3. Number of students who go on to Phd programs.
4.  Is a thesis required?

I realize numbers 3 and 4 are more particular to my DC, but thats the point.  Maybe your DC wants to go to medical school, and that would be a good measure for him/her.  Maybe they want a top notch international exchange program.  I can tell you from looking that most of the highest ranked schools don't require a thesis, and I believe a thesis requirement is absolutely a sign of academic rigor.  My point is that they've chosen some random factors that may not be the factors you would choose.

Number 2 is impossible to quantify and is the most important element for choosing a college.  [b]A student spends 4 years at the place and if its a miserable place -- and some highly ranked schools have that reputation  [/b]-- it isn't worth it.  You can get an excellent college education and be happy.  Isn't that what we all want for our children?[/quote]

which highly ranked schools have a reputation for being a miserable place?  Thanks.[/quote]

Hopkins and CMU are not all that happy of places. U.Chicago has a massive rep for being hell as well. Harvard isn't the bastion of great student life either. I've heard the same about Columbia.

My sibling goes to AWS and can't wait to leave (absolutely despises it). 
[/quote]

So sad. College should be an enjoyable experience.  Many say their college days were the best years of their lives. Why not? There are so any choices and opportunities.  Those who diminish schools that offer a vibrant social life miss the point - [b]you can get a terrific education AND have fun[/b].  [/quote]

O.K., any recommendations that fit these two criteria? Thanks[/quote]

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