Princeton Review - The Best 381 Colleges
The Princeton Review’s annual guide, The Best 381 Colleges, has long been regarded as an essential resource for prospective college students and their families. The 2017 edition of this guide includes a selection of institutions that have earned distinction for their academic excellence, campus culture, and commitment to fostering student success. Among the featured colleges, Bellarmine University, College of Charleston, Clark University, and the University of Denver stand out as institutions that offer unique environments and enriching experiences. These schools have earned their spots in the guide for a variety of reasons, ranging from active student engagement to remarkable academic offerings and a commitment to creating an impactful campus community.
Bellarmine University, a private Catholic institution located in Louisville, Kentucky, is recognized by the Princeton Review as one of the nation’s best colleges. The university’s inclusion in the 2017 edition of The Best 381 Colleges highlights its strong academic reputation and vibrant campus life. Notably, Bellarmine University earned a place on two of the guide’s featured lists. First, it was ranked 14th for having the most active student government. This ranking reflects the significant role played by Bellarmine’s Student Government Association (SGA) in shaping student life on campus. The SGA is a critical part of the university’s community, providing students with opportunities to voice their opinions, engage with administrative decisions, and contribute to the overall campus culture. Feedback from students, gathered by the Princeton Review, highlighted the SGA's impact in facilitating positive changes on campus, fostering a sense of community, and empowering students to take ownership of their educational experience.
In addition to its active student government, Bellarmine University earned recognition as the 18th "stone-cold sober school." This ranking is particularly significant because it underscores the university’s commitment to maintaining a campus culture where alcohol and drug use are minimal. Students at Bellarmine reported high daily study hours outside of class and low levels of alcohol and drug usage, which speaks to the university’s focus on academics and personal well-being. For students who prioritize academic success and a disciplined lifestyle, Bellarmine offers a campus environment that encourages hard work, engagement, and a strong sense of responsibility. The combination of active student government and a sober, academically focused environment makes Bellarmine University a unique and appealing option for prospective students looking for a positive, focused campus experience.
The College of Charleston, located in Charleston, South Carolina, is another institution featured in the Princeton Review’s 2017 guide. Known for its historical significance and vibrant academic community, the College of Charleston stands out as one of the top colleges and universities in the Southeast. Its inclusion in The Best 381 Colleges reflects its academic rigor, student engagement, and the unique opportunities it provides to its students. The College of Charleston is highlighted in multiple categories within the Princeton Review, showcasing the diverse ways the university excels. Notably, it earned recognition as one of the "Best Colleges that Create Futures," a designation that underscores the institution’s commitment to providing students with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed after graduation. This includes access to a wide range of internships, career development services, and alumni networks that help students transition from academic life to professional careers.
In addition to its emphasis on preparing students for successful careers, the College of Charleston is recognized for its efforts in sustainability. It earned a spot on the Princeton Review’s "Top Green College" list, a recognition that celebrates colleges and universities with robust sustainability programs and a commitment to environmental stewardship. The College of Charleston’s green initiatives include sustainable building practices, recycling programs, and environmentally conscious campus planning. These efforts reflect the university’s broader commitment to creating an eco-friendly campus while educating students about the importance of sustainability in their professional and personal lives.
Beyond academics and sustainability, the College of Charleston also earned accolades in the category of "College City Gets High Marks." This ranking speaks to the vibrant and dynamic city of Charleston, which offers students an exceptional quality of life. Charleston is renowned for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and diverse cultural offerings, making it an ideal location for students who want to experience life in a city that blends old-world charm with modern attractions. The College of Charleston’s location provides students with access to a wide range of internships, cultural events, and recreational opportunities that enhance their overall college experience. The combination of academic rigor, sustainability, and the thriving Charleston community makes the College of Charleston an appealing choice for students looking for a well-rounded college experience.
Clark University, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, is another institution featured in the Princeton Review’s The Best 381 Colleges 2017 edition. Clark is renowned for its commitment to social justice, community engagement, and academic excellence. The university’s inclusion in the guide highlights its strength as a leading liberal arts institution. Clark University is particularly noted for its efforts to foster a campus environment that encourages students to make a positive impact on the world. This commitment earned Clark a spot as the No. 3 "Best School for Making an Impact," a ranking that reflects the university’s focus on integrating service, social responsibility, and activism into the student experience. Clark’s academic programs emphasize experiential learning, encouraging students to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world problems, particularly in areas such as environmental sustainability, social justice, and urban development.
Clark University’s dedication to diversity and inclusivity is also noteworthy, as evidenced by its ranking of No. 11 on the list of schools with "Lots of Race/Class Interaction." The university fosters an inclusive community where students from diverse backgrounds can collaborate, engage in meaningful conversations, and work together to solve complex issues. This inclusive atmosphere is central to Clark’s educational philosophy, which values the importance of diverse perspectives in enriching the learning environment.
In addition to its focus on social impact and diversity, Clark University has earned recognition for its outstanding theater program. The university ranked No. 12 among "Best College Theater" programs, showcasing its strength in the arts. Clark’s theater program is known for its creative and innovative productions, which provide students with hands-on experience in acting, directing, and stage production. These opportunities allow students to hone their craft while also engaging in a rich cultural experience on campus.
The University of Denver (DU), located in Denver, Colorado, is another institution that is featured in the 2017 edition of The Best 381 Colleges. DU’s inclusion in the guide highlights the university’s strengths in a variety of areas, including study abroad opportunities, library resources, and the overall campus environment. DU is particularly noted for its "Most Popular Study Abroad Program," where it ranked 8th overall. The university offers an array of study abroad programs in locations around the world, providing students with opportunities to gain international experience and expand their global perspective. This ranking underscores DU’s commitment to providing students with enriching opportunities to learn outside the classroom and immerse themselves in different cultures.
DU also earned recognition in the categories of "Best College Library" and "College City Gets High Marks," where it ranked 18th in both categories. The university’s library is known for its extensive resources, study spaces, and support services that enhance students’ academic success. The city of Denver itself, with its vibrant culture, outdoor activities, and diverse professional opportunities, provides DU students with a dynamic environment in which to live, work, and study.
In conclusion, the 2017 edition of The Best 381 Colleges highlights a diverse array of institutions that offer exceptional academic programs and unique opportunities for student engagement. Bellarmine University, College of Charleston, Clark University, and the University of Denver all stand out for their strengths in various areas, including student government, sustainability, social impact, and international experiences. These schools provide students with not only a quality education but also a vibrant, supportive environment that encourages personal growth and success. As prospective students explore their options, these institutions represent some of the best choices for those seeking a well-rounded and impactful college experience.
