<p><<I never thought that the OOS numbers are sooooo looooow
for Cal and Texas.</p>
<p>I wonder if Hawkette’s OOS numbers include the internationals as well. >></p>
<p>The OOS numbers in TX (can’t speak for CA) are primarily because of the top 10% rule. The will be modified to some degree (top 8%) starting with the class of 2011, but it still won’t make a huge change. According to the 2008 student profile at UT Austin - about 4% were OOS, 3% were international, leaving 93% in-state students. Again, that just means that 93% of the kids graduated from TX high schools.</p>
<p><<…at schools in the south a large majority of the students join a religious organization such as FCA or Campus Crusade for Christ…>></p>
<p>Yes - you are probably more likely to see it in the SE/Bible Belt area. It’s definitely something to consider if you are going to feel left out or offended or bothered by such groups. And that is why campus visits are critical. But for someone who is comfortable with their beliefs/non-beliefs, I don’t see it being a problem. Same “concern” goes for conservative/southern/non-religious kids (that would be my 2 sons) going to schools in very liberal areas. Bottom line - you have to be confident in your beliefs (or lack thereof) and knowledgebale about what you’re getting into. </p>
<p>Also - this is EXACTLY why understanding what the in-state/OOS % really means at a school is important. The major public schools in states like AL or TX are likely to have a much more diverse group because AL and TX have large industries (oil, technology, aerospace) that bring in people from all over the US and the world. That just isn’t the case in other states. </p>
<p><<also, some=“” schools=“” (including=“” public=“” schools)=“” do=“” have=“” all-faiths=“” chapels.=“”>></also,></p>
<p>But attending chapel isn’t required - it’s an option. I think that what mom2collegekids’ point.</p>