Final answer:
The idea that unrecognized colleges can't be good and famous colleges are so for a valid reason is false. The quality of education should not be solely judged on an institution's fame but rather on comprehensive evaluations of its academic offerings and alignment with one’s educational goals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "If I haven’t heard of a college or university, it can’t be very good" is false. The visibility or fame of an educational institution does not necessarily correlate to its quality. There are many excellent colleges and universities that may not have widespread name recognition but provide outstanding education and opportunities to their students. Fame may come from various factors such as historical significance, successful alumni, athletic programs, or simply having a larger marketing budget.
The corollary "if everyone has heard of a college, it is probably because there is a good, earned reason for that fame" is not always true. While many well-known institutions have earned their reputation through high academic standards and research achievements, fame alone is not a reliable indicator of quality. It's important to evaluate a college based on a variety of factors such as academic programs, faculty expertise, resources, and outcomes for graduates rather than relying solely on its fame.
In researching whether a college is a good fit, it’s essential to use credible sources and consider personal goals and needs. An informed decision should be based on a comprehensive understanding of the institution and alignment with the student’s educational and career objectives.