<p>Hey everyone, so I can go delve into a long drawn out story, but in a nutshell: I'm graduating this spring from California State University, Fresno (BA History) and will be moving to Tennessee for their National Guard (I'll be commissioning in addition to graduating). I plan on going to graduate school at the University of Tennessee. Would this generally be considered a step up in regards to the institution? I'd like to work my way up through better and better quality institutions until hopefully I can get into a real reputable school for a Ph.D. program.</p>
<p>I only ask because I noticed East Tennessee State, Middle Tennessee State, and Tennessee State in addition to UT and at first glance figured that to be similar to the CSUs while UT was more like a UC. Vanderbilt is out of the question, my undergrad hasn't been stellar enough for that. Anyway, I'd like some input from people that are familiar with a variety of institutions.</p>