Pro tip: TOUR UCF!
The campus is
not small, and is surrounded by an incredible research complex (Siemens, Northrop Grumman, and many others). UCF was founded in partnership with NASA. We have a huge student body, but the campus does not feel overcrowded at all -- it's just purpose-designed and well-planned. It
is well NE of Orlando, but both Tallahassee and Gainesville are in the middle of nowhere (and this from a Gator with a 'Nole DD and 2 'Nole DGD's).
Any of the Florida schools will be a "full ride" with prepaid and Bright Futures. Your son may well graduate with money in the bank.
DD's BFF is at USF and I did some grad work there. USF is meh as a campus, but has some good schools. With what he has going for him, I would NOT look below the USF/FIU level -- no FAU, FGCU, etc.
A LOT depends on what your DS wants to do in life.
- If he's into hospitality, Cornell is probably the best with FIU and UCF close behind.
- UF has always been outstanding for Engineering, although UCF and FIU are also good.
- Medical/pre-med -- any of the above. USF has a guaranteed pre-med/Med school opportunity. UF is probably the best, but all of the better Florida schools are excellent for medicine.
- For other disciplines, you really have to look at the specific programs.