In search of the most friendly colleges

Hi all, as I delve into the college application process, I'm beginning to value the friendliness of a college's campus culture. What colleges are known for their friendly atmosphere and welcoming student body, and why? Is there any ranking I should specifically look at that considers the friendliness of the campus?

Since "friendliness" can be highly subjective and is not directly measured in college rankings, there isn't a specific ranking for it. You might, however, want to look at rankings for categories such as "Best Campus Life" or "Happiest Students" to get some idea of schools where students report positive experiences.

But some colleges are frequently praised for their welcoming and friendly atmospheres. Here are a few:

1. Rice University: Known for a close-knit and collaborative community, Rice's residential college system fosters a strong sense of belonging. The idea is to create a small college feel within a larger university. Students often refer to their experiences at Rice as being part of a large family.

2. Swarthmore College: Swarthmore is known for its supportive and vibrant campus culture. It's a small, tight-knit academic community where every student is made to feel welcome.

3. University of Notre Dame: The University of Notre Dame has a reputation for an exceptionally welcoming community with strong ties through shared traditions. There's an emphasis on inclusivity, community service, and camaraderie among peers.

4. Dartmouth College: Students at Dartmouth speak highly of the close, engaging community, credited in part to the college's house system, supporting close faculty-student interaction and active outdoor culture.

Please remember that one student's "friendly" might be another's "overly social," and organizations like Princeton Review, which base their rankings on student surveys, rely on a self-selecting group of respondents. Visiting campuses when possible, participating in virtual tours or chats, or reaching out to current students or alumni can be a great way of getting a feel for the on-campus atmosphere at the schools you're considering.