Growing up in New Jersey, I found that many New Jerseyans tended to take Rutgers for granted, preferring to shell out extra cash just so they could say they went away for college. At Rutgers, though, students--particularly from in-state--get more bang for their buck than they would elsewhere.

Although not exotic, Rutgers is an excellent school with top-notch faculty, high academic standards--and diversity. My high school was relatively small and white-bread; at Rutgers, I met and made friends with people from all different walks of life. The university seems to be set up to make that easier.

Unlike some large state schools, Rutgers is made up of many smaller colleges. While all University students take classes together, students are required to choose a college affiliation and seem to get the best of both worlds: big university resources plus personal attention. Rutgers understands that the whole college experience is overwhelming and that it's easy for students to get lost. The colleges, with various organizations all their own, offer something for everyone; the key is to get out there and explore!