Flickr user John Earl
Happiness is a difficult aspect to track, in any aspect of life. However, some studies do manage to track happiness when it comes to college. These are just four schools that are considered some of the “happiest” for its students in the United States.
Vanderbilt University
One of the consistently “happiest” schools in the United States is Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. There’s plenty to do around the college, academically, on campus, and off. Partnerships with 10 schools and neighboring institutions help create a strong community and network that students can rely on. A large portion of the students are also members of Greek organization and take part in university sponsored events, the exciting city of Nashville, and an atmosphere that sincerely promotes individual achievement.
With a very low student to faculty ratio (8 to 1), strong academic networks, and plenty to do, there’s no wonder the school’s first year retention rate is a whopping 97%!
Rice University
Similar to Vanderbilt, there’s never a lack of anything to do at Rice University. Located in the heart of Houston, Texas, the school is on a large, gorgeous campus with nearby trails and museums. Smaller than most schools, there are under 4,000 undergraduates attending, making for a very intimate connection between the students.
Also like Vanderbilt, Rice University boasts an extremely low student to faculty ratio (6 to 1) and a great first year retention rate of 96%.
College of William and Mary
Often called a “Public Ivy,” the College of William and Mary is one of the oldest schools in the country, predating the Revolutionary War. Found in historic and scenic Willliamsburg, VA, the college has a dynamic yet close knit and supportive community. However, even with roots so far back in the past, students who attend the College of William and Mary are exceptional when it comes to academics and the school itself is on the cutting edge of technology.
Like the previously listed schools, this college also has a great first year retention rate: 95%.
Yale University
An extremely high rated and well known Ivy League school, Yale University is located in New Haven, Connecticut and was founded in 1701. A gorgeous campus, strong athletic team, and an intimate community along with a powerful academic program all come together to create a university students are extremely happy with.
Yale University also has a low student to faculty ratio of 6 to 1 along with a freshman retention rate of 99%!
Happiness is very difficult to quantify. After all, it depends on you, the student! While other students may find happiness at these schools, it may not be the perfect fit for you. Do your research and know what you’re looking for in a college. What makes you happy?
These are only four colleges in the United States that are considered some of the “happiest.” Other schools that often make the list are the University of Oklahoma, Kansas State University, Tulane University, Colby College, and the University of Iowa.
Interested in any of these happy schools? Check out College Raptor’s free college match tool to discover if they’re a good fit for you!
