<p>USF, UF, and FSU are Florida’s 3 flagship public universities. The flagships have more of a research and graduate programs focus than the other 8 state universities. UM is private. You should be able to get Pell grant right to the last minute at any college if eligible. No telling yet what additional state grant and scholarship money like Bright Futures will be available next year as legislature is still fighting over money now. Too, tuition at all state universities will likely increase next year. The later one gets financial aid request in though, the more watered down available institutional scholarships; it’s first come first served for most of those.</p>
<p>You’re right being concerned about employment prospects after graduating from college. UF’s career center doesn’t place 100% of grads in decent jobs though, the employment market is tough everywhere in today’s economy. Every college in America has some grads that are unemployed now looking for work, including grads who have been canned with many years of job experience. USF has an active career center also. Wherever you go to school, get involved with the college’s career center right away learning about future employment opportunities, resume building, interview skills, how to get a job, etc.</p>