Numbers

How can Universities be realistically compared numerically? If so what do these imaginary numbers really mean?

I have always though numerically ranking of Universities is a ridiculous practice, yet I do admit that I studied the Princeton Review and questioned the New York Times’ “Best Colleges”. Universities appear so similar, especially after visiting several. There are dorms, cafeterias, libraries, unions, and classrooms. They really are not that different, academically at least. Maybe studies should be done on Universities outside to the classroom, where real differences appear.

My parents told me that college is what you make it. Numbers should be considered, but realistically, a college experience is unique to each individual. No stereotypically path awaits freshman. Everyone is different, and I think this is okay.

So than, in regards to students, what is the purpose of the numbers? I think that their intent is to comfort parents and students alike. Confirming decisions made by students, while assuring parents of their commitment.

When I decided upon attending the University of Wisconsin- Madison, it was not because it was ranking, but rather because of its reputation. Graduates of the University of Wisconsin-Madison are allotted a great deal of respect within the academic world prior to attaining success, due largely because of name recognition.