<p>“Best” is never going to be scientifically accurate, so take these lists with a big grain of salt.</p>
<p>But, still, looking at the underlying methodology can reveal things about a college that may be useful for an individual to know Here’s theirs: </p>
<p>[Methodology</a> - Forbes.com](<a href=“http://www.forbes.com/2009/08/02/best-colleges-methodology-opinions-ccap.html]Methodology”>Methodology)</p>
<p>Debate the flaws in the methodology - simply asserting “That’s bogus, everyone knows Podunk U. is the best” isn’t a methodology, but an opinion, and usually just a parroted one at that - I mean, how could anyone “know” Harvard, for example, is the best college? Based on what? Even if you personally attended there - what would you have to compare it to? </p>
<p>I’d have to say the use of “Who’s Who?” and “RateMyProfessor” as inputs are obvious targets for criticism, while student and faculty awards, student indebtedness, likelihood of graduation in four years, and post-graduate employment statistics are all probably useful metrics, although the various weights assigned are debatable. </p>
<p>Whatever, it’s nice to get some recognition since W&M doesn’t fare so well in the most respected and recognized college quality ranking of all - the BCS standings … :)</p>