��Vlog: Public Colleges & Universities Blog

5 Ways a Public University Can Help You Save Money

2026-04-25T15:39:21.143243-04:00

As you narrow down the list of colleges to which you’ll apply, there’s a question you’ll face at some point: public or private? It’s an age-old debate and there’s no simple answer. Both public and private colleges and universities have their own unique pros and cons. But for many students, it comes down to money. Though financial aid and scholarships can help make private colleges more affordable, most public institutions are going to be inherently easier on your wallet. If you’re trying to decide which is right for you take a look at five of the top ways attending a public university can help you save money.

1. In-state tuition

If you attend a public university in your home state, you’ll pay in-state tuition, which is generally far less expensive than both out-of-state and private college tuition. Some state schools also have scholarships and grants specifically for residents, which can further reduce your costs. Out-of-state tuition can sometimes be twice or even three times as high as in-state tuition, but if you’re interested in a public university in another state, there are some tuition exchange programs through which you may be able to receive a reduced tuition rate. These agreements include the New England Regional Student Program, the Midwest Student Exchange Program, the Academic Common Market, and the Western Undergraduate Exchange.

2. Less need for private loans

If you’re applying for financial aid, the federal aid you receive may go farther at a public university. If your federal aid (combined with scholarship) doesn’t cover all of your costs at a private college, you may end up having to take out private loans, which usually come with a much higher interest rate than federal loans and will take you that much longer to pay off as a result.

3. Prestige without the private price tag

If you think you need a diploma from a private college to impress future employers and colleagues, think again. There are many public universities that are just as, if not more, prestigious than their private counterparts at a fraction of the tuition. For example, the University of California, Santa Barbara and Pepperdine University are both very selective schools with positive and well-known reputations. But in-state tuition at UC Santa Barbara, a public college, is a little over $13,700, while tuition for all students at Pepperdine, a private university, is nearly $70,000. Of course, if you truly have your sights set on a particular private college, tuition alone shouldn’t nudge you toward forfeiting your dream, but it may be worth exploring some of the public universities where you could get an equally excellent education without breaking the bank.

4. The potential to live at home

Moving out and living on your own is probably one of the things about college you’re looking forward to most. But if you’re really looking for ways to save money and there’s a public university within driving distance of home, it’s worth considering spending at least a few semesters commuting. Provided your school doesn’t have a residency requirement (some schools require new students to live on campus), living at home for your first year or two of college could save you thousands of dollars. Or you could live on campus for the first couple of years to get the experience and live at home for the second half. Whatever works for you. Plus, you’ll be close enough to school to get in on all the campus activities you want and still be home in time for dinner!

5. Transfer later on

If you have your heart set on a private college but the cost of attendance feels overwhelming, you don’t have to give up on your dream. Starting out at a public university and transferring to a different school after a few semesters is an excellent way to save money without sacrificing your goals. Just be sure you’re aware of both schools’ transfer policies from the start, and do your best to take courses that are certain to transfer when the time comes.

Are you weighing the pros and cons of public and private colleges and universities? Make sure you take all the important factors of a college before deciding—money, location, academic offerings, and more. Your final decision will look vastly different from someone else. Focus on yourself, your needs, and your goal while being open-minded to schools you may not have thought of before.

Find even more ways to save money on your college costs by checking out the blogs and articles in our Financial Aid section.

How to Make More Friends as an Out-of-State College Student

2026-04-25T15:39:21.140347-04:00

According to the Department of Education, the out-of-state student population has nearly doubled since 1986. These students often feel out of place on college campuses far from home, especially when the majority of the student body is from that state. However, though they may not start school with an entire friend group already established, they can certainly build one by following these tips.

Take advantage of welcome week

Most college campuses offer a few days for new students to acquaint themselves with the university before classes start. Use this time to branch out and meet new people. Usually, first-year students have yet to establish a group of friends this early on in the year, so they’ll be more open to hanging out with unfamiliar people. Many will be out-of-state students themselves and will be interested in hearing where you’ve come from and why you chose that school. Meeting new people can be stressful, but most are open to making friends once you get past the initial anxiety.

Get to know your dormmates

You’ll see the people in your dorm nearly every day. Frequent interaction like that allows friendships to form smoothly and organically. So leave your door open when you’re not studying, hang out in the lounge, and go where others are congregating. Psychologically, most people accept that they’ll have to get along with their dormmates for at least that year. Dorms aren’t like classes you attend a few times a week with many different seats to choose from. Living arrangements like dorms are pretty much set in stone for months, so most people won’t erect the mental barriers to newcomers they might in other situations. Plus, dorm relationships can be extremely useful in the future. Though you might not live together sophomore year, you may attend the same classes or join the same clubs. Having someone to sit next to, study with, or just gossip about your class with will make you feel more comfortable during stressful times.

Get involved

The best friendships are built on similar values and interests. Clubs and organizations that align with your values and interests are the best way to meet people who share them. College life can be an extremely tough adjustment, so trying out new clubs can be stressful and sometimes seem unproductive. But if you can commit to just one or two, you’re all but guaranteed to meet new friends without sacrificing too much study time. Student organizations are important for your future as well. Anyone applying for a job can tell you it’s not your grades that distinguish you from other applicants but the depth of your experiences. (And clubs are a heck of a lot more fun than classes anyway.)

Bottom line: The people you meet at college will make or break your experience. College can be rough for everyone, especially out-of-state students. But if you take a step outside your comfort zone and take advantage of the resources your school provides, you’ll find plenty of friends await you!

Where have you met your best friends at college? Let us know on social media @��Vlog.

Top Tips for Applying to Big Colleges and Universities

2026-04-25T15:39:21.137304-04:00

When you start searching for colleges, you may think “the bigger the better”—big like a large public university that offers state-of-the-art facilities, hundreds of diverse student organizations, and an alumni network that encompasses the world. Big schools often dominate entire cities with school colors, and on game days you feel the energy of tens of thousands of fellow fans. There are many appealing aspects of large colleges.

However, size can also bring considerable downsides. The largest institutions often have trouble accommodating their enormous student bodies, and it can be easy to fall through the cracks—especially during the application process. I attended the University of Texas at Austin, which is notorious for having an unaccommodating application process. Clocking in at over 30,000 applications every year, this is understandable. Although their admission department does an exceptional job “making a big school feel small,” as they like to say, it’s impossible for them to personally accommodate each applicant of thousands. As a result, applicants can feel left in the dark both before and after they hit the “Submit” button. Here's what I’ve learned by applying to one of the largest schools in the country that can help you with your applications.

The application process isn’t over once you hit “Submit”

Keep an eye out for the applicant page a school will send you a link for after you apply. UT, for example, has a “My Status” page students are required to log in to after submitting their application through Apply Texas. They do this so you can report your high school classes to make sure you’ve completed the courses required. This step is mandatory for admission, but it’s not always clear you have to do it. I had two friends who were unaware of this step and found out after UT’s application deadline. As a result, their applications were rejected. My friends lost out on one of their top college choices because of a miscommunication in the application process. Don’t make the same mistake. After hitting “Submit,” stay on top of your applications. Check the status pages, check for communication from colleges every day, and call your admission representatives if you have any doubts.

Do more than the bare minimum

Admission counselors for large schools deal with tens of thousands of applicants every season. The sad truth is that colleges will not spend much time poring over every nuance of your application, and four years of hard work is often boiled down to minutes. Even large schools that boast of a “holistic review process” use a process designed for efficiency. Because of this, they’re not going to remember the majority of applicants—so you need to do everything you possibly can to stand out.

If a college says something is “optional,” it isn’t. If something is “recommended,” consider it mandatory. For example, UT requires applicants to turn in two essays, but Apply Texas allows applicants to upload essays for all three prompts. When there are extra optional drop boxes to bolster your application with even more information, don’t leave any empty. Take any opportunity to show off more of yourself. I went through an incredibly competitive admission process, and I’m quite sure that going above and beyond by writing all three essays made me stand out as an applicant.

Visit more than once

There are many advantages to visiting a school multiple times, and this is especially true for the biggest. Large schools have so many unique facets that it’s impossible to get a feel for them in one visit. Go to informational sessions. Go to games to immerse yourself in the student body. Spend a day in the city to get a feel for the environment. Audit a class if you can. If you know anyone attending the university, ask them if they can show you around and take you through a day as a student. Every student has a different experience at a large university, so the best way to find out what it will be like is to act as one.

Focus on your specific college

While the general informational sessions you’ll be invited to are a good starting point, also attend smaller open houses for the specific school or college you’re applying to. For example, I applied to the Moody College of Communication and the College of Liberal Arts at UT, and I found the sessions tailored to those schools to be more relevant and informative. Additionally, the people who review your application are typically from the specific schools to which you are applying. Getting to know the faculty of your specific college, the actual people who will be reading your application, is much easier than trying to stand out among the whole university’s applicant pool.

This is also why you will want to target your essays and résumé to your specific schools, so you can explain why you will be a good fit for the university as a whole but also that college specifically. I applied as a Journalism and International Relations dual major, so I made sure to put my relevant experience in student media, speech and debate, and the Model UN at the top of my résumé, and I highlighted my involvement in these activities in my application essays.

Hopefully, my real-life experiences will help you navigate the overwhelming maze of applying to large schools. Avoid making the same mistakes that many of my friends did by staying on top of your applications and meeting all your deadlines. Good luck with your applications and the admission season!

If you want to be extra cautious (as you should) with your applications, check out our Essential Step–by–Step Guide to College Admission and Applications. And if you’re still looking for colleges to apply to, find and connect with them using our College Search tool.

Benefits of In-State vs. Out-of-State Colleges: What's Best for You?

2026-04-25T15:39:21.133581-04:00

Should you go out of state or stay in your home state for college? Well, it all depends on what’s best for you! So many factors contribute to your perfect college match. A couple of big ones are where the school is located and how much it costs, especially if you’re interested in going to a public college or university. Here are a few pros and cons to consider for each option.

Benefits of staying in state for college

Do you want to go to an in-state school near home (and maybe save your bank account)? Here’s what to know about the benefits to your college costs, family relationships, and overall comfort in college.

College costs

Everybody knows that state schools are usually more budget-friendly than those that require a plane ticket. Attending a college or university in your home state can be a great way to save money for the future, and that’s not a bad thing. There are thousands of resources that can help you save money. However, this doesn’t mean you should compromise your dreams purely to attend a cheaper in-state school.

Family ties

Staying close to home is another benefit of attending a state school. Having the option of driving home for the weekend to see family and friends is a factor some students might not consider that big of a deal when choosing a college. However, being a few miles away from your family (or even living off campus with them and commuting to college) can be great—not just for free food and laundry but also for comfort and support when you need it.

Local comforts

A big pro of attending an in-state school is you know what you are getting into, a big perk when it comes to comfort. Weather, demographics, and current trends are just a few of the things that will be old hat for you. Knowing the area can be an advantage if it allows you to focus on other aspects of college life, like getting involved in activities and working hard in your classes.

If you’re close to home, there’s also a chance that people who graduated from high school with you will also be attending your in-state college. So there’s the potential for built-in buddies or maybe even roommates. Although there’s also the potential for built-in lingering high school drama…but hopefully you don’t have any of that.

Benefits of going out of state for college

Are you thinking you want to spread your wings and travel across the country to an out-of-state school? Here are some of the benefits of taking this big leap into independent adult life.

College costs

Lots of schools offer discounts just for out-of-state students. You might get an out-of-state tuition waiver and/or benefit from a state’s tuition reciprocity agreement. You never know what your financial aid package will be like until you apply to a college, so an out-of-state school might be cheaper than you realize. Focus on finding colleges that fit you first, and don’t give up on a school’s affordability until you know for sure!

Change of pace

Going to college is your chance to experience change—in weather, culture, scenery, everything! If you’re like me, you’ve lived in one place for most of your life, and although familiarity may be comfortable and easy, taking a step outside your comfort zone is a wonderful thing and a big part of the whole college experience. Getting to try a new wardrobe for the different seasons, experiencing the atmosphere of a new town on a Friday night, or joining an open mic night at the local coffee shop are all things you might not do if you go to a school close to home.

Adult independence

Moving out of state for college can better prepare you for the challenges of the adult world. This is the perfect opportunity to experience “grown-up life” before it actually comes. It can also help you think about what you want after you graduate. Where do you want to work? Where do you want to live? Are you okay with not seeing your family that often? How are you going to pay off student debt? Living too close to your family can greatly impact all those answers.

Considering both in-state and out-of-state colleges can improve your chances of finding your best-fit college. Schools in your state may not meet expectations for your desired size and intended major, or maybe you don’t like the feel of some out-of-state campuses you visit. Expand your horizons outside your home state and both public and private to ensure you find a school that meets all the criteria on your college search rubric.

Find great in-state and out-of-state colleges and universities using our AI-Powered College Search tool!

10 Things to Do Before Moving Out of State for College

2026-04-25T15:39:21.129009-04:00

There’s a lot to do before you head off to college—and even more when you’re preparing to move out of state. It’s not like you can pop home as easily as students attending colleges nearby their hometowns. You're making a big change and taking a big step into a whole new lifestyle. So there are some things you’ll want to tackle or not miss out on before heading off in the fall. For your convenience and speaking from experience, here are 10 things to do before you move out of state for college.

1. Don’t take a summer class unless it’s necessary

Even though summer classes can be helpful in preparing you for what’s to come and for adapting to the college mentality, it’s not worth the time and stress simply to try and get into the groove of things a couple months ahead of time. One of my best friends took a month-and-a-half-long college course over this summer, and having to move to Washington, DC, from California, she was shorter on time for shopping for her dorm and packing to leave in just a couple weeks after the course ended.

2. Pack and store

Figure out exactly what you’re packing for the move and what you need to store. Know what to bring, and if you’re moving into a dorm, don’t pack anything you’re not sure you’ll use. Knick-knacks, for example, aren’t really necessary and can cause clutter, which isn’t recommended for your studying environment. Make a list of what you’re taking (i.e., clothes, shoes, pillows, blankets, books, etc.) and make an inventory of what you’re storing for easy access when you come home. Labeling everything clearly makes it much more simple for you and your family to know where everything is.

3. Meet up with close friends

Something you’ll need to do, even just for a day, is meet up with your close friends before you all leave for college. Moving out of state, there’s a lot of new places and new people to meet, so take some time to enjoy the friends you’ve made and celebrate the times you’ve all spent together before you leave. Have lunch, watch movies, play games, and plan meet-ups for when you’re all back home during holiday breaks.

4. Travel around your state as much as possible

One thing I felt the need to do before I left for college is truly travel around my state and understand the ways it’s unique. Having explored more of the southern half and living close enough to the coast for annual day trips to the beach, I took a good five days to travel across Northern California with my mom to see the sights and visit a few national parks. Serving as both a bonding trip and a way to venture for the first time throughout my state, hitting the open road (even with the fires going on around us) gave me a sense of security and closure as I got ready to pursue an academic future elsewhere. Another thing you should do is hit up your favorite local restaurants. I knew my future city didn’t have an In-n-Out, so I made that stop as much as I could the summer before I left for school. Goodbye beautiful burgers and fresh fries…goodbye California…

5. Communicate with your roommate

It’s move-in day. Since most of the students out of state have to live on campus, you’re likely set up with a complete stranger. Keeping a conversation through your housing portal or getting each other’s phone numbers beforehand can make communication easier and help you get to know the person you’ll be living with for the most formative years of your life—plus, it will make move-in day less stressful. As soon as I got my room assignment this year, I started messaging my roommate, and we were able to find out more about each other and set up perameters we likely wouldn’t have thought of until we were in the middle of the semester. It’s always a good idea to forewarn each other about living habits and preferences.

6. Change your style

College is a time of change and transition. That being said, you’d be surprised what changing with the times can do for you. In college, you can establish a whole new, more professional style. You can be flirty or you can be sporty. This is your time to learn about your field of interest and yourself. So if you’ve been thinking about it, get a haircut, dye your hair, get an ear piercing—you name it! Express yourself how you want to and be true to who you are.

7. Establish a routine

You’ll be taking a lot of classes in college and will have a tighter schedule between those, work or internships, clubs, and studying (not to mention socializing and making new friends). To maintain a good balance in your life, it’s best to come up with a day-to-day routine you can follow to keep track of everything and make the transition to college life a lot easier. Map everything out before you move. It’ll free up more of your time so you get into the swing of things more efficiently.

8. Familiarize yourself with your new city and local history

Fun fact: the dwarf planet Pluto was discovered at an observatory just miles from my college. The Grand Canyon is also just a drive away. Every time I look up things fairly local to my school, I get more excited about the environment and surrounding opportunities to explore. You may not have time for sightseeing with your busy schedule, but it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the area in case you decide to head into town or hang out off campus with your new friends on weekends.

9. Join every form of social media (and be professional on it)

You never know if your classmates or professors are going to want to keep in touch with social or professional opportunities, so it’s good to have a presence on social media (namely LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram). Fair warning though: you have to keep more personal information and memes for your spam accounts. Make sure the information you post is not only accurate but unbiased and professional.

10. Visit campus

One thing I wish I could have done this summer was visit my future campus. Even though I fell in love with my first choice through its excellent programs, its city, and its avid communications, there’s a lot to be said for figuring out how it feels to walk across the quad or see the classrooms you’ll spend hours of your weeks in. If at all possible, take the opportunity to tour the school, or really soak in the atmosphere when you go to orientation. It can help you acclimate to your campus while you’re there. And if you really can’t make the trip to visit, there are other ways to get to know the school.

Overall, take your time and use your summer to prepare yourself for the transition of a lifetime. Enjoy the last few weeks before the move and understand you’re not alone in this experience. There are thousands of students who start school in a new state and want to explore as many new opportunities as possible just like you, so get ready for it—you’ll be there before you know it!

If you need even more summer college prep advice, check out our blog How to Prepare for College Over the Summer!

What Life Is Really Like at a Big Public University

2026-04-25T15:39:21.125434-04:00

One of the most exciting things about your first steps on your college campus is the chance at a brand-new start. It’s exciting to know that you’re about to meet a bunch of new people, have a ton of new experiences, and take classes “actually matter” now and that you’re going to be a part of a school bigger and better than you ever imagined. But there’s an adjustment period! Here’s some advice for starting your college journey and specifically what to expect if you’re attending a big public university like me.

What we are here for: Class

In a nutshell: we go to college because we need to take classes to earn a degree. College classes at large public universities are a lot different than high school classes. For most 100-level classes, you’ll typically be in a large lecture hall full of hundreds of students, a few TAs, and one professor. Each day you meet for class, the professor will pull up a PowerPoint and lecture you on the material. Depending on what type of professor they are, they may have a more conversational and interactive lecture, or they may just spit out information at you. Either way, it’s your responsibility as a student to get a good grip on the material come test time. As you progress more in your major, your class sizes will usually decrease. This makes it easier to form relationships with your professors and peers while focusing on your specific studies.

Don’t be afraid to go to your professors’ office hours if you don’t understand something. Professors are typically very nice people who want to help their students! It’s always beneficial to introduce yourself at the beginning of the semester; that way if you’re close to a grade change, they may recognize the effort you put in and help you out. Another thing to note is you don’t meet for class every day in college; you’ll generally meet two to three days a week for each class. So it’s important to keep track of assignments and reading so you can be as successful as possible!

The upsides to big public universities

A large university means a larger range of opportunities socially, collaboratively, and academically. Here are some of the upsides of attending an institution like this:

New people: One positive is the many different types of people on campus. At a big public university, you can truly be whoever you want to be. If you want to rebrand yourself, you can and will find people just like your new self.
School spirit: Usually stemming from competitive NCAA athletic teams, school spirit at public universities is a huge attractant for many students. Whether it’s football, basketball, soccer, or another sport, they all bring the student body together. Cheering on my University’s athletic teams is one of my personal favorite things about attending Florida State University.
Major opportunities: You’ll find that there are many majors and minors to choose from at a large public university. Public universities generally offer a broader curriculum to ensure students can find something that interests them.
Student involvement and campus life: With a big university comes a wide selection of ways to get involved. Honor societies, undergraduate research, and Greek life are just a few of the many student organizations and opportunities to join. There are usually a lot of events happening on campus, as there’s always something going on during normal times. Most universities have websites and/or Facebook pages with upcoming events ranging from free movie showings to Bob Ross–style painting classes.

Tuition affordability: Public universities are government funded and may be cheaper than private college or universities (they’re significantly cheaper for students who live in state).

The downsides to big public universities

A big public university can be a blessing and a curse; it really just depends on what you do with your time there. There may be a lot of things to get involved in, but there are also lots of ways to get overwhelmed. Here are some of the potential downsides and how to deal with them.

Fear of missing out (FOMO): This is something everyone deals with freshman year. Since there are so many people at big universities, there’s a lot going on. You may feel like you’re missing out on everything. The reality is, you’re not missing much. The sooner you learn to do what’s best for you, the better off you’ll be.
Getting lost: It’s easy for a small fish to get lost in a big pond. That’s why it’s important to get involved some way or another while you’re in college—join something that makes your campus feel smaller. The people I’ve seen who come to college and don’t get involved in anything are typically the ones who drop out before their freshman year is over. When you have a purpose, you have a reason to stay.
Class sizes: This is a con to a big university only if you let it be. At big public universities, general education requirement classes (gen eds) are usually taught in big lecture halls with hundreds of students. This can make it difficult to ask the professor questions after class because there’s usually a long line, or it may be scary for you to raise your hand to ask during class. If this worries you, talk to a couple students sitting near you on the first few days of class and ask if they want to start a group chat. It’ll be beneficial to you throughout the semester to have a quick way to contact a couple people who know what’s going on if you’re lost, and you may make some new friends too.

Common misconceptions about big public universities

Often, it’s a concern to rising freshmen that a bunch of their high school friends are going to the same university as them. They’re nervous because they don’t want to do high school all over again with the same people. From personal experience, it’s really not a bad thing to have your high school friends in college. When things get tough, when you get homesick, or when you need a ride home, your high school friends will be the first people you can turn to during your first semester. You also have to remember that once you all get involved in your own organizations on campus, it will limit your time together anyway. Just because your high school friends are going to the same university as you doesn’t mean you have to or will be with them every second of the day. On the contrary, another misconception about high school friends in college is that once you all join your own organizations on campus, you won’t be able to see each other at all. That’s absolutely not true; you’ll just have to work harder at seeing each other and make it a priority.

Another common misconception about attending a big public university is thinking you’re going to go to college and easily make a bunch of new friends. You’ll make friends, but you’re not going to do it by just sitting in your dorm room. Get involved on campus and meet people with similar interests as you. In college, people are busy with their own schedules, and students aren’t just walking around campus asking to hang out. That’s why it’s so important to get involved so you can find your tribe.

There’s a college or university out there for everyone—you just have to sit down and ask yourself what you want out of your college experience and academics. There will be pros and cons for both small and large schools, public and private. The best thing you can do is be in tune with yourself and reach out to people you trust to get their opinions. You’re only an undergrad once, so make sure you do it how you want it!

Can you picture yourself at a big public university? Start looking for great schools to apply to using our College Search tool.

4 Great Public Universities for Studying Journalism

2026-04-25T15:39:21.122076-04:00

When it comes to choosing the right college and major for you, there are a lot of choices. With all those options, many factors determine whether or not a school is a match for you, such as location and possible job opportunities. If you want to study Journalism and are unsure where you should go, don't worry! Here's a list of four of the best public colleges for studying Journalism.

1. Georgia State University

If you want to attend a great school in a big city, then Georgia State University is a good choice. Georgia State is a public research university located in Atlanta. It’s ranked third among the best schools in Georgia and high in the nation as one of the best schools to study Journalism. There are more than seven University campuses around the Atlanta Metropolitan area, and the main campus is downtown. The University’s Journalism major is one of the most popular among students. Georgia State’s study body is a diverse mix of genders and races. Many ethnically diverse students come to GSU annually, making it one of the most diverse schools in the country.

Connect me with GSU!

2. Arizona State University

If you love the sun and have a goal of visiting the Grand Canyon, then this school might be perfect for you. Arizona State University is a public research university located in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Arizona State's Journalism program has won many awards for being one of the best schools to study Journalism in the nation. At ASU, you can get your certification, bachelor's, master's, and/or doctoral degrees from their range of Journalism programs. Many news corporations and well-known journalists have worked with students from ASU to help them take the extra steps needed to become the best in their field. After pursuing their degrees, just over 85% of students are employed or granted job offers, from copy editors and news anchors to producers and more.

3. The Missouri School of Journalism, University of Missouri

The University of Missouri is a land-grant research university in Columbia that offers a range of programs in Journalism and Communications through the Missouri School of Journalism. From undergraduate programs to global options, students can dig deeper while pursuing their degrees. Ranked in the top 1% of schools in the country for Journalism, the University produces world-class journalists who are ready for any challenge. The Journalism School is fairly small, with just over 2,200 undergraduate and graduate students. With an acceptance rate around 77%, Mizzou makes it possible for many students to gain admission. Beyond these stats, the environment is just right; the campus sits on 1,262 beautiful acres and is considered to be one of the oldest schools in the world, having been founded in 1839. The University strives to make everyone feel included, regardless of race, sexual orientation, or religion.

Connect me with Mizzou!

4. The Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Georgia

With over 38,000 total students, the University of Georgia is a very large four-year public school in Athens, Georgia. Founded in 1785, it’s also one of the oldest public universities in the United States. UGA is considered one of the top three best schools for studying Journalism. Its two Journalism programs graduate just over 150 undergraduate students each year, and just about 91% of graduates are employed within six months of completing their education. The Grady College strives to uplift and support different views and serve student diversity to help create learning opportunities, improve character, and have tough conversations.

Connect me with UGA!

These public colleges and universities are considered some of the best in the country to study Journalism, along with many other factors that make them great schools in general. Regardless of where you plan to go to college and no matter the size you prefer, start your search with this list and see if one of them is the right fit for you.

Want to find more great schools with Journalism majors? Start searching with our College Search tool!

Understanding Campus Community: How to Find Yours at a Public College

2026-04-25T15:39:21.117593-04:00

“A college education should equip one to entertain three things: a friend, an idea, and oneself.” — Thomas Ehrlich

This quote truly captures the essence of the college experience—especially the idea that college is about making friends and finding yourself just as much as furthering your education. One of the most significant yet underappreciated aspects of attending a public college is the sense of community, and aspiring or current public college students need to learn how to take advantage of that. Let’s explore how a strong campus community can enhance your educational experience as well as your personal growth.

Why campus community matters in college

Making friends is important—that goes without saying. But there may never be a better opportunity to reach out to new people, foster connections, and build friendships that could potentially last the rest of your life. College is often the first time students are away from home for a long period of time, and forming new friendships is important for emotional support and growth. Whether it’s through a study group, peer support network, extracurricular activity, or collaborative project, on-campus experiences are all bolstered by a school’s general sense of community, which provides students with a strong support system for the ups and downs of their academic lives.

How to find your community

Taking advantage of orientation programs when you get to campus is a great way to start your search for community at a public college. Samanta Migatz, Assistant Dean of Students at Elmhurst University, said in an article by U.S. News & World Report, “At Elmhurst University in Illinois, for instance, students are divided into groups based on their first-year seminar course. This is so that when they start classes a few days later, there will be some familiar faces in the room.” First-year orientation is a great way to meet and bond with new people that you might be sharing a class with in the future. If you decide to live on campus, your dorm or residential hall is also the perfect place to start building your community. Getting to know your neighbors, engaging in res life activities, and attending floor meetings are all fantastic ways to meet and connect with like-minded individuals.

Beyond these immediate sources of community bonding, there are a few other ways to search for your place on campus.

Extracurricular activities

Because their student bodies are so large, public universities often have hundreds of student organizations covering a wide range of interests, from academic and professional groups to cultural and hobby clubs. Joining a student organization is one of the easiest ways to meet people who share your passions. Whether it’s a debate club, a robotics team, or your mom’s old sorority, you’ll find a space where your interests are celebrated and contributions are valued.

If you enjoy physical activity or played a sport in high school, joining a sports team or recreational club is another great way to find community. Public colleges typically offer a variety of intramural sports, fitness classes, and outdoor adventure programs. Whether you want to go D-I or just play for fun, participating in sports with others is a great way to build trust in relationships.

Campus resources

Make sure you also keep an eye on your college’s events calendar and attend as many events as possible, especially during your first semester. From guest lectures and cultural festivals to career fairs and social mixers, these events provide opportunities to meet new people and explore different facets of campus life. And who knows? You might learn something new or have a wild experience at a campus-hosted concert!

Many colleges also have online platforms and social media groups for different classes, clubs, and interest groups. Taking advantage of these virtual communities and message boards can help you stay informed about events, find study partners, and connect with peers outside of your immediate social circle. This could help you branch out and see what’s outside the initial bubble many new college students build for themselves.

Remember, the effort you put into building your own college community will pay off in terms of emotional support, academic success, and lifelong connections. So dive in, explore, and find your people among the vast student body at your public college or university. And most importantly, have fun! You’re in college, after all.

There’s no shame in looking for guidance on one of the biggest journeys of your life. Have the best experience possible with the help of ��Vlog and Our Best Advice for Freshman Year of College!

Valuable Tips From One Out-of-State College Student to Another

2026-04-25T15:39:21.113265-04:00

Going to college out of state can be exciting and fulfilling for many students, but you should know what it entails before choosing this path. I grew up right outside of New York City and knew I didn’t like the kind of fast-paced lifestyle it offered. For me, going out of state to attend the University of North Carolina Wilmington was an easy choice because it excited me and offered an escape from the place I grew up in, but it also still felt like a safe next step. A big pro of being an out-of-state student is the opportunity to experience a new place and its unique culture. On the other hand, you should be prepared for the culture shock that comes with going to school outside your home state. Before choosing to go to an out-of-state college, you also need to consider the financial factors of this decision. Leaving your home state for college might be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, but it doesn’t come without some costs.

Be prepared for culture shock

Upon moving from New York to North Carolina, I was prepared to hear new accents and learn new slang, but there were many things that I didn’t expect. For example, everything seemed to take five times longer than it did in New York, from the traffic lights to the fast-food lines. And speaking of food, I had to familiarize myself with foods like grits, collard greens, and gumbo, which was difficult for me as a picky eater. Even the way people interacted with each other was different from what I knew. I remember being told I was “too blunt” for saying things that felt normal to me as a New Yorker. I also noticed the majority of my southern friends would avoid confrontation and play “fake nice” when conflict arose, which I wasn’t used to.

All this considered, these things made me appreciate where I grew up, and I now have a better and wider perspective on friendships and their value. Moving out of state for college requires an open mind and confidence in what makes you, you—no matter the crowd you’re in. Without these two things, you may find yourself feeling like the odd man out at your new school. Stay true to yourself and you’ll see just how many people are interested in getting to know you and your background!

Out-of-state tuition

This goes without saying, but it’s still important to ask yourself if it’s worth it to pay more for out-of-state tuition, especially based on your major of choice. I originally went into college as an Education major, but I would have been better off doing so in my home state of New York, where the pay for teachers is higher and the treatment is better. I recommend researching the states that have the best opportunities for your field of choice before committing to an out-of-state college and its tuition costs.

Extra costs are also no joke

College is always expensive, but it can be extra expensive if you go out of state. Before committing to an out-of-state school, there are a few questions you should ask yourself, starting with, “Am I prepared to pay for flights home for two or more school breaks?” During my first year, my parents wanted me to come home for every single break I had—even the ones that were only four days long. This just wasn’t possible due to the high price of plane tickets. At UNC Wilmington, I usually go three to four months without seeing my family, which is just right for a person like me who is pretty independent. If you want to be able to go home often, an out-of-state college might not be for you.

Transportation

The next thing you should ask yourself is, “If I don’t have a car, how am I getting from one place to another?” This truly depends on the campus, but at my school, the grocery stores and outlet malls are within driving distance...which requires some form of transportation. I spent my very first semester without a car and was miserable having to rely on other people to get me where I needed to go. Having a car in college is also helpful for traveling home from your campus, especially at the end of spring semester when you’re moving everything out of your dorm.

Understand what you’re choosing

When you choose to be an out-of-state college student, you are making a choice that is bold, courageous, and exciting. You’re going outside your comfort zone on a new path of adventure—one that in-state students won’t fully experience. There are a lot of pros to being an in-state student, like going home on weekends, getting home-cooked meals, visiting pets and loved ones, and being able to take a break from living on your own. Still, the out-of-state student experience promotes self-reliance and thus produces a large amount of self-confidence. It can also help you break out of your shell and become a strong and self-sufficient adult.

In the end, where you go to college is up to you. You get to pick the setting for the next chapter of your story, so make it somewhere that is empowering, beautiful, and makes you feel safe to be yourself.

Still looking for a great school outside your home state? Check out our featured undergraduate colleges and request more information in just a few clicks, or find the place you’d like to live with our College Lists & Rankings based on Campus Location.

Great Reasons You Should Attend an In-State Public College

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Choosing the right college is a big decision that can shape your academic, personal, and financial future. While some students aspire to move out of state for college, there are certain benefits to staying in your home state and attending a public institution. From cost savings to strong local support networks, let’s talk about why attending a public college in your home state might be a great choice for you and your goals.

Significant savings on college costs

One of the best reasons to attend a public college within your home state is the financial benefit. In-state tuition is often much more affordable than out-of-state or private school tuition. Public colleges and universities are funded by the state they are in, which allows them to offer lower tuition rates to students who are residents. Many states also offer grants, scholarships, and financial aid programs specifically for in-state students, which could make the overall cost even lower!

Private colleges may offer more merit-based aid, which can help offset their higher tuition costs and make them more affordable than many students expect. But going to an in-state college or university could potentially save you tens of thousands of dollars over the course of your college career. The money saved could help you avoid taking on student loans, which means less debt after graduation—an important factor to consider for your long-term financial health.

Proximity to family and support networks

Being close to home can make the transition from high school to college life a lot easier for some students, as it allows in-person access to pre-established emotional and financial support from your family and friends. This can be a big help during stressful times in college like midterms, when having loved ones close by can make a huge difference for your mental health.

Staying closer to home at a state college could also mean fewer logistical challenges with travel, including long and expensive airplane rides during school breaks and holidays. It will be easier to visit home when needed, and this proximity can provide comfort for both you and your family.

Opportunities for state-specific career benefits

Many states offer great incentives to students who stay in state to work after graduation, including loan forgiveness programs, job placement assistance, and specialized industry partnerships. By attending a public college in your home state, you’ll be in a better position to take advantage of these opportunities than if you decided to go out of state or attend a private university.

Additionally, your college will have a stronger understanding of the job market and industries within the state, meaning the on-campus career service offices are specialized to help students succeed locally. If you’re interested in starting your career close to home, a public college in your state could provide an excellent, supportive path to your professional goals.

While the allure of out-of-state colleges may be tempting, it’s important to consider the significant advantages that staying close to home can provide. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your personal preferences, financial situation, and long-term goals, but attending a public college in your home state is a great option that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Still not sold on an in-state college? Consider other money-saving options by learning All About Tuition Reciprocity at Out-of-State Universities.

����Vlog: Public Colleges & Universities Blog

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Out-of-state tuition

Extra costs are also no joke

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Understand what you’re choosing

Great Reasons You Should Attend an In-State Public College

Significant savings on college costs

Proximity to family and support networks

Opportunities for state-specific career benefits

��Vlog: Public Colleges & Universities Blog