Just mention the words "US News and World Report" around anyone who works in the college admissions field (high school or college side) and you will probably be received with a sigh accompanied with an eye roll; perhaps even some explatives depending on the counselor's professional and academic affiliation. While I can only speak for myself, I have heard similar sentiments echoed by colleagues. College Counselors (high school counselors especially) have a love/hate relationship with the US News rankings. As an educator, I shy away from boxing students into categories or limiting them by scores. One on hand, rankings add to the "boxing" or "categorizing" of students. It creates a caste system by which students and parents judge value and quality. This is then inevitably tied to self-worth with a slew of other psychological implications. College admissions is first and foremost about helping students find their "best fit" post-secondary options. Sometimes it is difficult for parents and students to look beyond the rank and recognize that the child's personal best fit is derived from a variety of factors. While the rankings may help quantify certain data (such as retention rates, cost, diversity on campus, acceptance rates, etc.), it is important for parents and students to interpret the rankings with a grain of salt.
In spite of the negative connotations, there are some benefits of a national ranking system. Before discussing the virtues of college rankings, I want to clarify that I am in no way advocating for a single variable ranking by which colleges are ranked on one list. I am speaking more about the rankings and tables detailing specific aspects of the college experience. There is not, and cannot be, a "best college in the country." The term "best" is subjective and changes based on individual preferences. With that caveat in mind, some tables and listings used in the US News rankings issue are beneficial. For example, in light of the recent economic turmoil, the rankings detailing amounts of aid awarded to students or other financial aid statistics are going to become increasingly helpful for students, parents, and counselors.
In the upcoming issue, US News & World Report will include its listing of "Up and Coming Institutions" for the second year in a row. I find this concept refreshing since I often encourage my students to think outside the box when creating their initial college search list. This list also reminds me of the great Loren Pope book/organization, "Colleges That Change Lives." These lists detail often overlooked institutions that actually provide superb opportunities and educations for the right students. Perhaps they may not compete in DI athletics or be featured on ESPN, but these schools often turn out exquisite student research and help their graduates go on to respectable jobs/grad schools/med schools etc.
Another listing that is worth note is the "A+ Schools for B Students." Although I find the name/title a bit disenchanting (but I may be overly sensitive), I think the intention is good. It is important for college-bound students to feel confident during the application process. Students who are not straight A students or who are not at the top of their classes shouldn't compare themselves to those A students who have been taking tons of AP classes since 10th grade. I think people forget that it's OK to be average! Most of the world is average. As I tell my students, most colleges don't expect every applicant to be the youngest student to climb Mt. Everest or find a cure for cancer. Applicants should highlight their own strengths and be confident in their own skills and passions. This listing prompts applicants to think about more than just their GPA.
Finally, a personal favorite ranking is the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE). The NSSE asks college freshmen and seniors about their college experience. I always encourage my students to talk to "real students" when visiting college campuses. As a former college tour guide, I applaud tour guides' enthusiasm for their school, but a broader sample of student opinions is helpful to get the real picture. The NSSE is a glimpse into the "real life" of a college.
In summary, the love/hate relationship most counselors have with the US News & World Report annual college rankings is nothing short of complicated. In a way, it's a necessary evil within our profession. On Robert Morse's US News College Ranking blog post from July 30th, he lists the tables that will appear in this year's issue. When August 20th rolls around, I'm sure another blog will comment on the actual rankings. For now, college counselors and college admissions deans/professionals will just enjoy the calm before the storm.
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