Newsweek College Rankings (US)

The 2011 College Rankings released by Newsweek and its affiliate website The Daily Beast highlighted a diverse range of institutions across the United States, evaluating colleges and universities in several categories based on specific qualities and attributes. The rankings sought to provide a nuanced perspective of the nation's educational landscape, moving beyond traditional measures such as academic reputation and test scores to examine factors like campus life, student well-being, and future opportunities. In this context, schools such as the University of Georgia, the University of Mary Washington, Carson-Newman College, and Swarthmore College earned notable positions in various categories, each of which sheds light on the strengths and unique offerings of these institutions.

University of Georgia (UGA), in particular, garnered widespread attention in the 2011 rankings, securing spots in four of the 25 categories, a notable increase from its two categories in the previous year. UGA’s performance reflected the breadth of qualities that the university excels in, demonstrating its appeal not only as an academic institution but also as a place that offers a well-rounded college experience. The university placed eighth on the list of "Most Beautiful" campuses, an honor that speaks to its picturesque campus, which features lush greenery, traditional brick buildings, and scenic walking paths, making it an ideal environment for students who appreciate both nature and classical campus architecture.

UGA also placed 10th in the "Healthiest" category, showcasing the university's commitment to promoting well-being and an active lifestyle among its students. The ranking considered factors such as campus fitness resources, healthy dining options, and initiatives designed to foster mental health and wellness. The fact that UGA is highly ranked in this category suggests that it prioritizes student health through accessible fitness facilities, healthy food choices in campus dining halls, and wellness programs that cater to the physical and mental needs of its students.

Moreover, the University of Georgia also earned a spot in the top 12 for "Future Politicians," a category that recognizes schools producing graduates who go on to careers in public service and politics. With its proximity to state government offices and a strong tradition of political engagement, it’s no surprise that UGA ranks highly in this category, positioning itself as a breeding ground for future leaders in government and political activism. Furthermore, UGA placed 19th in the "Cheapest Universities" category, which evaluated institutions based on their tuition rates and the financial aid they provide. With in-state tuition at approximately $18,000 per year and 93 percent of students receiving financial aid, UGA's affordability combined with its high ranking in other categories makes it an attractive choice for students seeking value along with a well-rounded educational experience.

University of Mary Washington (UMW) also earned recognition in the 2011 rankings, placing in the top 25 schools for "Best Food" in colleges and universities. The university was ranked 19th in the category for its campus dining program, with a solid rating of 5.3 out of 7 for "best campus dining." This ranking is indicative of UMW's strong emphasis on providing quality, diverse, and healthy food options to its students, ensuring that dining is not just about sustenance but also an enjoyable experience. For many students, food plays a central role in campus life, and UMW's ranking affirms the value it places on meeting the dietary needs and preferences of its student body. Other Virginia schools like Virginia Tech and James Madison University were also included on this list, showing that a commitment to student satisfaction with food and dining services is a priority at various institutions across the state.

Moving from dining to service, Carson-Newman College, located in Jefferson City, Tennessee, was recognized as the leader in community service among American higher education institutions in the 2011 Newsweek/The Daily Beast rankings. Carson-Newman College placed second overall in the category of "Most Service-Oriented" schools, which is a testament to its deep commitment to fostering a sense of civic responsibility and service in its students. The college encourages students to engage in community service through various programs and initiatives designed to promote social justice, volunteerism, and community engagement. Carson-Newman’s emphasis on service aligns with its Christian mission and reflects the college's belief in the importance of serving others as an integral part of personal and academic development. Its high ranking as a service-oriented school indicates that Carson-Newman excels in providing students with opportunities to make a positive impact on the surrounding community and beyond.

Finally, Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania, one of the nation’s most prestigious liberal arts institutions, earned a reputation for its distinctive combination of academic excellence, intellectual rigor, and a vibrant campus culture. Swarthmore was ranked first in the category for "Schools for Activists," reflecting its long history of student activism and political engagement. The college has cultivated a campus environment where students are encouraged to actively engage in social justice issues, human rights causes, and political movements. This emphasis on activism is one of the reasons why Swarthmore ranks as a leading institution for students who are passionate about effecting social change.

In addition to its position as the top "School for Activists," Swarthmore earned rankings in several other notable categories, further highlighting its diverse appeal. It was ranked 5th for "International Students," reflecting the institution’s ability to attract a diverse, global student body and provide an inclusive environment for students from around the world. Swarthmore also ranked 7th for "Brainiacs," a category that acknowledges schools with the most intellectually gifted students, a fitting distinction for this highly selective institution known for its rigorous academics and scholarly atmosphere.

Swarthmore’s commitment to challenging its students intellectually and preparing them for leadership roles is further evidenced by its ranking of 15th for "Most Rigorous" schools, indicating the level of academic intensity and the demanding nature of the curriculum. Additionally, the college placed 23rd for "Return on Investment," highlighting its strong reputation and the long-term success of its graduates in terms of career opportunities and financial gain after graduation. Interestingly, Swarthmore also ranked 24th for "Horniest," a tongue-in-cheek category that reflects the playful side of campus life, offering a lighter, more humorous perspective on student life at the college.

These rankings illustrate that Swarthmore College, with its combination of academic prestige, commitment to social justice, and well-rounded campus life, offers students an environment where intellectual growth, activism, and personal development go hand in hand. Swarthmore’s diverse and unique rankings in various categories demonstrate that it stands out not only for its academic rigor but also for its ability to foster a vibrant and engaged student body.

In summary, the 2011 Newsweek and The Daily Beast College Rankings provide valuable insights into a variety of institutions, showcasing a wide array of strengths that go beyond traditional academic measures. The University of Georgia, for example, stands out for its beautiful campus, health initiatives, political engagement, and affordability. The University of Mary Washington’s ranking in "Best Food" reflects its commitment to student satisfaction, while Carson-Newman College’s dedication to community service places it among the most service-oriented colleges in the nation. Swarthmore College, with its rankings in activism, intellectual achievement, and return on investment, continues to be recognized as a leader in higher education. These rankings offer a glimpse into the diverse qualities that make each institution unique and help prospective students select the college that best suits their academic, personal, and professional aspirations.