Determining the colleges with the happiest students is subjective and can vary greatly depending on individual experiences and preferences. Some students will feel happiest in a college that offers fulfilling academic work, whereas others will feel more at home in a college with a vibrant social scene. There are several colleges and universities that are particularly cited for their positive campus culture and student satisfaction. Here are 13 colleges and universities known for having satisfied and happy students.
Angelo State University
Angelo State University, in San Angelo, Texas, is a smaller institution that offers plenty of academic opportunities. Its size means that classes are collaborative and fun, and staff can offer enhanced mentoring opportunities that seek to draw out the best from its students. The university is known to be friendly and welcoming, with a campus layout designed to bring people together and offer spaces to socialize as well as relax.
Brown University
A leading research university, Brown is known for its ‘Open Curriculum’, which allows students a high degree of flexibility in designing their own course of study, as well as collaborating with senior academics on fascinating research projects. Students say this academic freedom leads to a sense of empowerment and engagement. Additionally, the city of Providence in Rhode Island provides a vibrant college life, with clubs, organizations, and events fostering a strong and diverse community.
Carnegie Mellon University
This prestigious institution is known for its high academic standards, appreciated by its students who feel fulfilled and motivated by the work they do. The institution is praised for its focus on innovation and interdisciplinary studies, as well as its supportive and collaborative atmosphere. Famous for arts and creative opportunities as well as technical and research functions, Carnegie Mellon is known for being able to offer something for everyone, regardless of their interests and career ambitions.
College of William and Mary
Located in historic Williamsburg, the College of William and Mary prides itself on a traditional and structured campus life that aims to bring students together and nurture their academic ability as well as enable them to socialize and feel cared for. On campus, the Earl Gregg Swem Library houses over two million books, and the Muscarelle Museum of Art is freely accessible to students. Students can enjoy all-you-can-eat restaurants, coffee shops, and a regular program of campus parties.
Emory University
Emory is known for its academic staff who are not only exceptionally capable but passionately believe in motivating students and getting the best out of their classes. Feedback and communication are regarded as being second-to-none at Emory. The institution promotes curiosity and encourages students to explore activities and programs that might be new or different for them, while supporting a sense of community and group discovery. Emory is only a short drive from the major city of Atlanta, offering a fun environment only moments away from campus.
Harvard University
Despite its rigorous academic reputation, Harvard often ranks highly in student satisfaction surveys. The university offers extensive resources, a strong sense of community, and numerous extracurricular activities. The university’s standing, Ivy League ranking, and focus on excellence are highly motivational factors for students, who take great pride in being part of the culture there.
Kansas State University
Known for harboring a diverse body of international students, Kansas State University is also deeply rooted in a sense of belonging and culture, known as the ‘Wildcat Way.’ It’s this culture that strongly appeals to its student population. Along with its 250-plus undergraduate courses, Kansas State University offers a diverse selection of extracurricular programs and a vibrant college town (Manhattan) that offers plenty of socialization and work opportunities. The university is known for leading research facilities and an exceptionally supportive learning environment.
Princeton University
Princeton consistently ranks high for student satisfaction. Above all else, Princeton aims to make education affordable to all by offering an almost unrivaled portfolio of grants and student support. This, as well as the university’s small class sizes, strong faculty-student relationships, and picturesque campus, contribute to a positive student experience. Princeton also coordinates a structured volunteering and social responsibility program called ‘Campus Life,’ which aims to engage students through giving back, bringing people together in the process.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
UCLA, located in sunny Los Angeles, is known for its diverse student body, pristine and modern teaching facilities, and supportive and nurturing academic staff. The university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that offer socialization opportunities for students in a vibrant urban setting. Additionally, UCLA’s alumni network is known for being highly effective and extensive, meaning that fulfillment from this institution continues even after graduation.
Students also have the option to sell books in Los Angeles if they need additional money, as the city offers various bookstores, used bookshops, and online marketplaces focused on the local area.
Stanford University
Stanford is known for its courses and academic excellence but also its supportive student environment that fosters both academic and personal growth. Students are invited to collaborate and support each other and find the learning environment to be enriching and motivational. Stanford has a beautiful campus and an extensive network of varsity clubs, with sporting activities that will appeal to a wide range of tastes and abilities. Extracurricular clubs at Stanford are well-established and effective, ensuring plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind after productive studying.
Thomas Aquinas College
This private liberal arts college is famed for its close-knit community of students that prioritizes inclusion and ensuring everyone has a part to play. TAC offers a slightly different approach to college life, with structured courses and established rituals combining with adult learning to create an environment that feels safe and nurturing. Students at TAC value their time there because this academic approach is tempered with plentiful extracurricular activities that are created to bring everyone together.
Vanderbilt University
Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University offers a balanced college life that strongly appeals to students. Vanderbilt is known to be academically challenging but balances this with plenty of clubs and varsity teams, and many student organizations that ensure students can bond and let their hair down. The college prioritizes mental health and well-being and offers students extensive support and mentoring to ensure they remain at their happiest throughout their time at the institution.
Washington State University
A multi-campus college based in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, Washington State University’s academic staff encourage students to be creative and think differently. There is a small student-to-faculty ratio, meaning more discussion in classes and greater collaboration. The college prides itself on its diversity and energy, with a multitude of clubs and activities in or around campus, and a host of volunteering opportunities to ensure students feel rewarded and stimulated, as well as academically fulfilled.
Colleges With the Happiest Students: Final Thoughts
It’s important to note that what makes students happy can vary widely from person to person. Factors like location, campus culture or beautiful college campuses, academic programs, and extracurricular activities all play a role in student satisfaction.
Additionally, the overall college experience can be influenced by individual goals and expectations. When choosing a college, it’s essential to consider your own priorities and what factors are most important to you for a fulfilling college experience. Visiting campuses and talking to current students during college tour can also provide valuable insights into the overall happiness of the student body.
