Greenes' Guide to Educational Planning: The Public Ivies

This book covers a huge amount of information on this subject, including: a) what kind of college student will thrive at a large state university, b) what is the role of parents in supporting their children's public college experience, c) how to reap the maximum benefits from a public college education. The authors analyze the major economic and demographic trends affecting public higher education. The book provides much qualitative and quantitative information on the best 30 state universities in the U.S. The authors suggest that to succeed in a large public university, students should develop a reflective style of learning. This means learning by listening, reflecting, and reading. This is because given the larger class size, public schools typically do not facilitate class discussions or have questions and answer sessions. Also, students should be assertive so as to go after all the academic opportunities offered in large public schools. These include terrific honors programs, study abroad programs, and summer internships. Also, by being assertive, students can better develop valuable contacts with teachers, counselors, and mentors. Finally, reaping a superior college experience in large institutions will require much self-discipline and drive. This is because no one watches over you. No one is going to tell you what you should do unless it is illegal. No hand holding here unlike what a student could experience at a small private liberal arts college. If a student abides by the advice mentioned within this book on how to succeed at a large state university, he can obtain a world-class education nearly comparable to the one offered by Ivy League schools at a fraction of the price. Also, the reviews on the various schools are excellent and give you enough data to differentiate between them. The authors written style is very user friendly, and it makes some of this dry information very easy to absorb. Any family college hunting for their children should consider the leading public university within their state. This book will provide the most valuable information on this subject that few other books specifically focus on.

The Public Ivies opens an exciting window of opportunity for parents and students who are concerned about how to gain a top education at an affordable price. As the authors indicate, today 80% of all students enroll in public universities and thus it is important to understand which are the best of the flagship institutions, and what skills and attitude it takes to succeed in them. Any family with a motivated student should make this book a must as they search for educational opportunities that will help them prepare for life. The book is well written, easy to read, adn full of intimate advice for both student and parent.