It's no secret that Pittsburgh plays somewhat of the underdog role in comparison to larger, more bustling cities in the U.S. But the fact that Pittsburgh embraces its role as a "comeback city" only makes it all the more appealing to college students seeking the perfect university haven. With its youthful, small town vibe, eclectic range of interests, and love of all things sports, Pittsburgh has become the most underrated college town you've probably never even considered. Watch your back, State College.

1. Pittsburgh sports teams.

Pittsburgh sports are notorious for their pride and unceasingly loyal fan bases. Game days in the city are an experience unlike any other. Whether you decide to hit up a Pittsburgh Penguins game at the Consol Energy Center, a Steelers or Panthers game at Heinz Field, or a Buccos game at PNC Park, you're sure in for the time of your life. The fans are insane and the energy is unreal, and each of the Pittsburgh sports teams have had unbeatable track records.

2. Trendy neighborhoods that appeal to an eclectic range of tastes.

From Randyland to the Strip District, to Mount Washington, East Liberty, and beyond, Pittsburgh offers over 12 diverse neighborhoods that appeal to a vast range of interests. Sports fans can take a trip on the T to the North Shore for a Steelers or Pirates game. Those with interests in the arts can walk downtown to the Cultural District to see a critically acclaimed show at the Byham or the Benedum Center. A visit to Shadyside offers fine dining and shopping at boutiques and quaint cafes on Walnut Street.

3. Enthusiastic culture and festival scene.

Looking for an expansive cultural experience? Look no further, Pittsburgh has that too. Students that stay at university for Labor Day can look forward to Pittsburgh's annual Kickoff and Rib Festival, which offers food vendors, activities, and live music. Musical guests are local artists and in past years have even included country music sensations like Thomas Rhett! Later in the year, be sure to check out Light Up Night in November and the Three Rivers Arts Festival in the summer.

4. Great concentration of diverse schools within minutes of one another.

With Chatham, Point Park, Carlow, Duquesne, Pitt, CMU, and The Art Institute of Pittsburgh all neighboring one another, it's easy to explore the social avenues available to you in just a short bus ride or walk downtown. Pittsburgh offers college students a unique experience to explore not just your own college campus, but the opportunity to become familiar with other campuses as well-as each of these campuses are no more than a few minutes away from one another. Pittsburgh offers students a college experience like no other, since you're sharing your "college town" with more than five other universities.

5. East Carson Street, South Side.

Did you know East Carson Street has the nation's largest concentration of bars per block? Whether you're interested in clubs like Diesel, Skybar, or The Flats on Carson, or dive bars like Dee's Cafe or Jack's, there's something for every nightlife lover around. For students under 21, clubs like Diesel offer 18 and up nights on Thursdays. East Carson Street combines the party atmosphere of a state school with big city nightlife. Big exam in the morning, but need to blow off some steam? That's fine too; take a visit to South Side Works to do some shopping at Forever 21, Urban Outfitters, H&M, and American Eagle Outfitters. The Works offers diverse eateries like the Cheesecake Factory, bd's Mongolian Grill, and Hofbrauhaus.

6. It's an up-and-coming foodie capital.

In 2015, Zagat rated Pittsburgh number one on their list of top ten food cities. Pittsburgh has been on the rise as a foodie capital for several years now, with unique dining experiences like Butcher and the Rye, Peace, Love, and Little Donuts, Burgatory, Sienna Mercato, and more. Experience Pittsburgh's pride and joy from Primanti Brothers, a zany sandwich loaded with fries and slaw. For breakfast beyond compare, try Pamela's Diner at one of its various locations for an omelette or crepe oozing with all your breakfast favorites. Explore the menu at The Yard in Market Square for gourmet grilled cheese for a uniquely satisfying dining experience.

7. It's also a startup haven.

Seeking to start a business after college or to work for an innovative startup? Pittsburgh is a great place to start looking. Kiplinger calls Pittsburgh one of the best cities to begin a startup. With a lower cost of living than most cities and a highly educated workforce, Pittsburgh has all the tools you'll need to find success with or within your startup, or for when you're seeking the perfect job after college-check out Google's Pittsburgh office pictured below!

8. City aesthetic with a small town feel.

The best part of living in Pittsburgh as a college student is probably the easy-going vibe this city puts out to its inhabitants. Although Pittsburgh is cluttered with large buildings, public transportation, and busy streets, it's really nothing but a small town at heart. Big enough to meet new people, but small enough that you know someone virtually anywhere you go, Pittsburgh captured my heart as an undergraduate student because of its friendly inhabitants and casual, at-home vibe. Whether you're seeking a school from nearby or miles away, your Pittsburgh school will become like home because of the neighborly atmosphere of this unique city.

9. Outdoorsy attractions.

If you're obsessed with the outdoors, then Pittsburgh might be the place for you. Pittsburgh offers unique attractions in the city for those of us that oftentimes get the craving for the great outdoors. Rent a bike from Healthy Ride and explore the city by bike, visit places like Point State Park and Schenley Park to get the most of the nature Pittsburgh has to offer. Venture Outdoors is a nonprofit organization dedicated to outdoor recreation in southwestern PA. They offer kayaking on the North Shore that offers a view of the city unlike any other!

10. There's always something to do.

Whether it's raining, snowing, sleeting, or hailing, Pittsburgh is famous for its finicky weather patterns; you'll never be bored. Hit up one of the Carnegie Museums like the Carnegie Science Center or the Carnegie Museum of Art or Natural History. If high-brow culture isn't your thing, try Phipp's Conservatory, a beautiful botanical garden in Schenley Park that offers holiday light shows and seasonal exhibitions throughout the year. For thrill seekers, see if your university offers day trips to Kennywood Park or Sandcastle Waterpark, or take a ride on the Duquesne Incline.

11. It feels like home.

If you're still not convinced by now, you might just have to check it out for yourself. Pittsburgh will give you a taste of urban life while still managing to feel like your home away from home. What more could a college student ask for?