Curious as to your opinions. If you are a “clued in” poster, what are your thoughts? Any underrated colleges or universities that seem ripe for becoming the next big thing?
I’ll start, though I am not as clued in as I pretend to be. 
Feel free to shoot me down if you disagree.
U Denver
Quinnipiac
Oregon State
Denison
I’ve watch Carnegie Mellon become much more respected. It’s always had fabulous niche programs. I think being the underdog has meant they really do try harder than places with more prestige.
Santa Clara U
U Denver has a good Learning Effectiveness Program for students with learning disabilities.
I’ve also heard some good things about U of Dayton (for those interested in a Catholic school).
I agree with Santa Clara.
Boston University had a pretty low acceptance rate this year too!
I’LL add mine
UCF
University of Cinninati
Yes, Denison! I am really impressed with their current president and all their new programs and facilities. Had fingers crossed that my daughter would choose it. Got her to apply, get admitted, but she decided way too small without giving it a chance really.“The one that got away…” (in mom’s eye).
Although it’s my alma mater, I don’t think Santa Clara is on its way up. Not well known enough nationally and I would keep it that way. Unless you’re a fan of ‘Bend it like Beckham.’
UCI, UCSB, and UCSC are on the upward trend. Watch out for UC Riverside too.
UT-Dallas is a definite candidate as an underrated school on the way up.
University of Richmond:
Well organized, great facilities and many opportunities for paid (Richmond Guarantee) volunteering and internships.
University of Rochester-it’s on the way to be the next Emory/WashU. In a few years the acceptance rate will be around 20% for sure.
UMass Amherst could be the next UT-Austin/UNC if the California kids realize how good a school it is relative to its national ranking.
UMBC
Occidental College. I don’t know if Oxy is on the way up, but it is a good school.
I agree with U.Richmond.
I chose it over Emory, Tulane and Boston College.
Great campus and business school as well as a unique Leadership Studies program-- over all seems very supportive and welcoming.
I’m very impressed by Iowa State University. I actually think that they have a very good Engineering School that is on par with some of the UC’s.
Totally agree with Santa Clara University, particularly in STEM. They are so supportive of their students and the opportunities they have because of the mentoring relationships can be phenomenal. We have been amazed with the internship and job doors it opened up. Their new law building is pretty spectacular too, but that has always been a strength. They are building building building there.
@svcamom I don’t know much about the University of Iowa but we drove by and had lunch there on way to visit the grandparents in central Illinois. It was a very pretty school and charming area. Felt super comfortable.
How about us “clueless posters”? :-h
I think we can find a “clue” in state domestic migration. Folks are migrating out of the NE/Midwest, to the southeast, southwest and west (with the exception of California). Schools in these rapidly growing states will benefit, while those losing population (shrinking tax base) will be hurt. Especially for public universities.
The Florida schools (UF, FSU, UCF, USF, FAU, UNF, etc.) are a good example of this, as the states population keeps growing, it’s tax base increases, and it’s funding to the 12 public universities keep increasing.
On the other hand, states like Illinois, are the opposite. The public universities in Illinois have to fight against a strong headwind.
I would add Purdue to the list.
I’ll add Elon to the list-increasingly popular nationwide. And UT-Dallas well, particularly for STEM kids.
I agree with Denison! Getting much more selective, has lots of money and meets full need. Still has merit, but they are using it more strategically as their student body becomes more accomplished. President is doing great things. And the campus is terrific. It also has a surprisingly diverse student body.