>1) It puts you in a network of other people who went to the institution, oftentimes people who have connections that can help you in life< That's not to be un

>1) It puts you in a network of other people who went to the institution, oftentimes people who have connections that can help you in life< That's not to be undervalued: Based on years of experience I would estimate that the "good" jobs, often regardless of the field, are landed as follows: Networking (60% of my "gigs":) Nepotism (10%, maybe more, much less in my case) Proven Ability to Deliver (20%) Good Luck (10%) Having said that, I believe it's very possible to leverage network contacts from a smaller school, especially if you're a member of on-campus groups that have a nation-wide presence...