<p>I definitely want to pursue graduate education after college and I was wondering if attending a school like the University of Alabama would put me in a hole. I don't really like the University of Florida, though I do recognize it is the "best" school in the state. Would it be best to attend UF because of it's reputation, or could graduating from UA with a high GPA and solid scores be considered just as highly?</p>
<p><strong><em>bump</em></strong></p>
<p>Is there a particular reason why you've narrowed it down to these two schools?</p>
<p>I am a resident of Florida, which is reason enough to attend UF, but I love the old south feel of UA. I am a National Hispanic Scholar, so i could attend 'Bama on full ride and then some. I'd like to study economics.</p>
<p>Why is being a resident of Florida reason enough to attend UF if you can go to a school you like better for free?</p>
<p>Yes, Florida has a stronger national reputation, but it's not like we're talking about Princeton vs. Southwest Noplace State. They're both solid state flagships where a pro-active student can get a very good education. It is true that within Florida, UF has an especially strong reputation/network, but there are plenty of Bama grads throughout the Southeast. Are you certain that you want to spend your whole career in Florida?</p>
<p>Whats wrong with UCF, USF, FAU, FSU, or FIU?</p>
<p>these are all excellent schools</p>
<p>FSU is actually my second choice behind Bama. I used UF as an example because the objective of this thread was to determine if the prestige of a school would affect my opportunities.</p>
<p>I am at Columbia University and went to high school in Alabama so I found it particularly interesting when I found out my Honors Math grad student TA went to UA for undergrad. I guess it's something to consider.</p>
<p>I suppose it depends on what you want to do in the long run and where you want to settle. If you achieve at high levels at either school, I don't think you will be held back as far as grad schools. Also, if you plan on returning to the Florida/Alabama area then going to one of those schools is a huge plus. I live in Birmingham. It is not unnatural for some one to ask you relatively early in your acquaintance Alabama or Auburn? I didn't go to either. My point is that in this area, the "good ole boy" network of hiring looks highly upon an Alabama degree in virtually any field. Go to the school you like the best.</p>
<p>Just came back from a long weekend in Birmingham with my brother's family. I can verify what Teach said. If you want to be in Alabama it's either Auburn or Alabama.</p>
<p>The undergrad B-school at UF is ranked 26th, FSU is ranked 47th, and Bama is ranked 57th. Realistically, they are all good choices, and do well at any and you will get into a good grad school.</p>