Top States Universities?

How do the choice of colleges that a strong HS student applies to differs between students in states with strong public universities and those in states that don't have strong public universities?

• E.g. students in California (with its amazing public universities) vs students in New England (which somehow doesn't have particularly strong public universities)

• Answer:

  Even if your state does not have "strong public universities", a strong HS student should not limit their options. There are college worksheets that help to narrow down the decisions as to where the student should apply. It typically starts with a list of 10 schools, both in state and out of state, then narrows down to 3-5 for top consideration. If the student wants to remain in-state, then that preference should be noted; however, there are both private and public institutions to consider. Many private institutions do not charge out-of-state tuition. Do your homework by perusing the various websites before making your choice as to the school to have an actual campus visit. The campus visit is essential since the internet makes every school look dynamic.