College choice: Private or public?

A prestigious reputation is just one factor to consider when choosing between a private or public university.

A recent Gallup poll suggested it is no secret Americans consider a private education more prestigious, but students on both private and public college campuses said a school's unique qualities are more important to consider than its private or public status.

Aside from the eight U.S. presidents who never attempted college, only 11 of the other 36 presidents are associated with a public university. A recent analysis of current Fortune 500 CEOs found that among the 13 colleges that are most represented in the group, nine are private institutions.

But Grant Anderson, a 22-year-old recent graduate of Belmont University, said he chose the private school over public universities because of its close-knit campus and low student-faculty ratio.

“I picked Belmont because I felt like a member of the community and I got very individualized teaching,” Anderson said. “I feel extremely prepared to take on anything the job market has to offer.”

Although public schools may offer a lively social scene, a private education was more academically challenging, Anderson said.

Kenny Williams, a 22-year-old junior at Tennessee State University, said he transferred from the private Martin Methodist College because its limited curriculum prevents exploring majors. Anyone who is concerned about a public university’s reputation should work hard to overcome it, Williams said.

“Overdo it. Be active on campus and join Greek life or student organizations,” Williams said. “You should also have internships and recommendations.”

Zach Wiley, an 18-year-old freshman bound for Louisiana State University, said the school’s powerhouse athletics program fit his ambition to become a sports journalist. Wiley said his friends preferred to attend public universities.

“Most people want to go to a big public school, be around people in a large environment and get the true college experience,” Wiley said.

Dan Saba, a 21-year-old senior at American University, said he chose the private college because it is in Washington, D.C. The school’s location attracted him more than its reputation, and many public universities offer a quality education that will not saddle graduates with significant debt, Saba said.

Kaitlyn Favorite, a 19-year-old sophomore at Benedictine College, said her Catholic faith drew her to the religious university. Favorite said the school makes her stronger in her faith, but the academics factor does not make a difference.

“I feel like I could have gotten a better education elsewhere,” Favorite said. “The private aspect has no bearing on how well you’re prepared.”

Echoing that sentiment, Saba said he believed a successful student is driven and productive during college, whatever the setting.

“If you’re a good student at a good school, it should not matter if that university is public or private,” Saba said.

Matthew Kenwright is a Summer 2012 USA TODAY Collegiate Correspondent. Learn more about him here.

This story originally appeared on the USA TODAY College blog, a news source produced for college students by student journalists. The blog closed in September of 2017.