Best 379 Colleges

In 2015, The Princeton Review’s prestigious college guide, "The Best 379 Colleges," highlighted a select group of institutions from across the United States known for their exceptional academic programs, vibrant campus communities, and outstanding student experiences. Among these, several universities and colleges stood out for their impressive rankings in specialized categories, such as dormitory quality, student happiness, athletic facilities, and financial aid. Some of the most notable schools included Loyola University Maryland, Rice University, Trinity University, and Wagner College—each earning recognition for their excellence in different aspects of higher education.

Loyola University Maryland

Loyola University Maryland, a private Jesuit university located in Baltimore, consistently ranks among the top institutions for undergraduate education, according to The Princeton Review. In the 2015 edition of "The Best 379 Colleges," Loyola is celebrated for its commitment to providing students with a well-rounded and enriching academic experience. The university is also highlighted in the specialty lists, where it ranks No. 2 in the nation for "Best College Dorms" and 5th for "Best Athletic Facilities." These accolades reflect Loyola’s dedication to ensuring that its students thrive not only in the classroom but also in their living and extracurricular environments.

Loyola University Maryland’s residence halls are known for their high quality, providing students with comfortable and well-equipped accommodations that foster a strong sense of community. With modern amenities, spacious rooms, and vibrant common areas, the dorms create an ideal living space for students to focus on their academic and personal growth. The athletic facilities at Loyola are similarly state-of-the-art, offering a range of resources for both recreational and competitive athletes. The university's commitment to fostering a holistic student experience—one that balances academics, social engagement, and physical well-being—sets it apart as a top choice for prospective students.

In addition to its high rankings in these categories, Loyola University Maryland is also featured on the "Best Northeastern Colleges" list in the Princeton Review’s guide, reinforcing its status as one of the top institutions in the region. The school’s rigorous academic programs, rooted in the Jesuit tradition of excellence, provide students with a strong liberal arts education that emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and social responsibility.

Rice University

Rice University, located in Houston, Texas, is another standout institution in The Princeton Review’s 2015 guide. Known for its rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and outstanding research opportunities, Rice ranks among the nation’s top colleges in several key categories. In the 2015 edition, Rice earned notable positions in the following areas: No. 2 for "Best Quality of Life," No. 6 for "Happiest Students," No. 7 for "Great Financial Aid," and No. 9 for both "Lots of Race/Class Interaction" and "Their Students Love These Colleges."

Rice University’s emphasis on providing a high quality of life for students is reflected in its beautiful campus, which offers a range of facilities and resources designed to enhance students’ academic and personal experiences. From scenic green spaces to modern dormitories and state-of-the-art research facilities, Rice ensures that students have access to everything they need to thrive. The university’s commitment to student well-being extends beyond the physical campus, as evidenced by its high ranking for "Happiest Students." Rice offers a supportive and inclusive community where students can foster close relationships with their peers, faculty, and staff.

Rice University is also recognized for its excellent financial aid programs, ensuring that students from diverse economic backgrounds have access to a top-tier education. The university's generous financial aid packages help make a world-class education more accessible to a broader range of students. Furthermore, Rice stands out for its commitment to promoting racial and class diversity on campus, with strong programs and initiatives designed to support and celebrate students from various backgrounds. This dedication to diversity and inclusion is one of the factors that contributes to the university’s high ranking for student satisfaction.

Trinity University

Located in San Antonio, Texas, Trinity University is consistently ranked as one of the nation’s top institutions for undergraduate education. In the Princeton Review’s 2015 guide, Trinity University is highlighted as one of the best schools for students seeking a well-rounded college experience. The university is ranked in the top 10 for "Best College Dorms," which is a testament to its commitment to providing students with a comfortable and supportive living environment. Trinity’s dormitories are known for their spacious layouts, modern amenities, and vibrant social atmosphere, making them ideal spaces for students to build relationships and engage with their peers.

In addition to its excellent dormitories, Trinity University is recognized for its strong liberal arts education. The university’s academic programs are designed to cultivate critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. Trinity offers a wide range of majors and minors across disciplines such as the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and business, allowing students to tailor their educational experience to their interests and career goals. The university’s faculty members are highly regarded for their expertise and dedication to student success, providing personalized attention and mentorship to students throughout their academic journey.

Trinity University also fosters a close-knit and collaborative campus community. With a strong emphasis on student engagement, the university offers numerous extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and service opportunities. Trinity’s commitment to developing students as leaders both in and out of the classroom makes it a top choice for those seeking a well-rounded college experience.

Wagner College

Wagner College, located in Staten Island, New York, is another institution that earned a spot in The Princeton Review’s 2015 "Best 379 Colleges" guide. Known for its strong academic programs and exceptional student services, Wagner College is featured in the guide’s "Great Schools for Health Services Majors" list, reflecting its excellent offerings in the health sciences. This marks the second consecutive year that Wagner College has been included on this prestigious list, solidifying its reputation as a top choice for students pursuing careers in healthcare.

In addition to its health services programs, Wagner College offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across disciplines such as the arts, business, education, and the social sciences. The college is committed to providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in their chosen careers. Wagner College’s small class sizes and close-knit community provide students with personalized attention and ample opportunities for academic and professional growth.

Wagner College’s commitment to student success is reflected in its high-quality faculty, who are dedicated to providing a rigorous and supportive academic experience. The college also offers numerous extracurricular activities and internship opportunities to help students build practical skills and gain real-world experience. Whether students are pursuing a degree in health services or another field, Wagner College provides the resources and support needed to succeed in both their academic and professional endeavors.

Conclusion

The Princeton Review’s 2015 "Best 379 Colleges" guide showcases a diverse array of institutions that stand out for their academic excellence, vibrant campus communities, and student satisfaction. Loyola University Maryland, Rice University, Trinity University, and Wagner College are just a few examples of the many colleges and universities in the United States that provide students with a top-tier educational experience. Whether it’s for outstanding dormitories, top-tier athletic facilities, excellent financial aid programs, or strong academic offerings, these schools are recognized for their commitment to fostering well-rounded, successful students. For prospective students, the Princeton Review’s guide serves as a valuable resource for identifying the colleges that best align with their academic, social, and personal goals.