How do rankings like those from U.S. News & World Report influence not just where students go to college but how universities shape their priorities? Are these metrics reflective of student needs, or do they merely reinforce existing inequalities?

Francie Diep is a senior reporter at The Chronicle of Higher Education, where she covers critical topics intersecting money and prestige in higher education. With over a decade of experience writing for publications like Scientific American and The New York Times, Francie brings sharp insights into the complex algorithms and societal impacts behind college rankings. Her work probes the deep questions of accountability, accessibility, and the role of education in modern society.

In this episode, we explore the pervasive influence of college ranking systems. Francie explains how these rankings shape institutional behavior, often to the detriment of students, and why they might prioritize privilege and wealth over meaningful student outcomes. We discuss potential alternatives, including a shift towards more transparent and nuanced metrics that reflect diverse student needs. This conversation challenges listeners to think critically about what truly makes a university "the best" and offers actionable ideas for families navigating the college decision process.