Stanford - not just an ordinary uni?

I keep hearing Stanford named alongside some of the world's top universities, but what exactly makes it so special? Are the academics really so much better, or are there other factors that make it such a renowned institution?

Stanford University is indeed a world-class educational institution, and its reputation is built on a number of factors.

Academics: Stanford is regularly ranked among the top universities globally, noted for academic excellence across various disciplines. They offer a broad range of programs from the humanities to the sciences, and especially known for their strong programs in business, engineering, and computer science. Their faculty includes multiple Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and MacArthur Grant recipients.

Innovation: Stanford is known as a hotbed for innovation, particularly in technology and entrepreneurship. It has been a wellspring for some of the world's most influential companies such as Google, Snapchat, and Netflix, which were all founded by Stanford alumni or current students. This is partially attributed to Stanford's close proximity to Silicon Valley.

Campus and Resources: Stanford's campus spans over 8,000 acres, making it one of the largest in the United States. It provides state-of-the-art learning facilities and resources, including research institutes, libraries, and laboratories.

Connections: Students of Stanford have the advantage of being introduced to a powerful network of alumni and industry connections. This can offer more abundant internship, research, or employment opportunities.

Selectivity: Stanford is recognized as one of the most selective universities in the world, with an acceptance rate typically below 5%. This means it attracts some of the brightest students from around the globe, creating a vibrant, intellectually stimulating learning environment.

Of course, the prestige of any university should not be the only factor in choosing where to apply. It's important to consider what you personally value in your education, and whether the programs, campus culture, and opportunities align with your goals and interests.