I think that grad/professional schools absolutely recognize Vanderbilt as a top university. I imagine that top national companies would, as well. What are your plans for after graduation? If you're looking at law or med school, or an advanced degree, I think having your BA from Vanderbilt will give you a definite boost. If you plan to return to an area like the one I live in, where few people go to school out of state, and few people move in from out of state, the Vanderbilt name would not mean as much. Which reflects poorly on my area, not Vanderbilt.
