Wofford College has one of the most popular study abroad programs in the country – and the top one in South Carolina – as well as one of the best alumni networks, according to The Princeton Review’s 2020 edition of its “The Best 385 Colleges” released earlier this week.
Wofford is a “fantastic option for students seeking a ‘rigorous’ liberal arts experience,” the flagship college guide’s editors say, quoting from student surveys. “More impressively, undergrads here have the opportunity to ‘network with highly influential people’ and participate in ‘an outstanding study abroad program.’”
The Princeton Review’s profile of Wofford highlights academics, campus life and attributes of the student body as well as provides information on admission and financial aid. Wofford has been included in the annual prestigious best colleges guide since its inception in 1992.
“Wofford is consistently recognized by The Princeton Review and other college guide books as one of the country’s best institutions of higher education,” Wofford President Nayef Samhat says.
Earlier this year, Wofford was included in The Princeton Review’s “The Best Value Colleges: 200 Schools with Exceptional ROI for Your Tuition Investment.”
“Wofford also consistently is recognized as a best value institution by The Princeton Review and other publications, such as the New York Times, Forbes, U.S. News and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance,” Samhat says. “Wofford continues to be among the most prestigious colleges and universities in the country on the key issues that most concern families regarding higher education – access, diversity, quality and completion,”
The best value list is based on a combination of institutional and student survey data, including academic rigor, affordability and career outcomes for graduates.
Wofford’s study abroad program ranked #17 among the nation’s top 20 for “Most Popular Study Abroad Program” in “The Best 385 Colleges;” Wofford is the only South Carolina institution on the list.
“The experience earned studying abroad is one that will prepare our students for responsible citizenship in their local and global communities,” says Amy Lancaster, dean of international programs. “For that reason, study abroad is ingrained in Wofford’s culture. We are committed to connecting our students with the world through immersive study, research and intern abroad opportunities.”
Wofford is ranked #25 on the list of the top 25 institutions in the country for “Best Alumni Network,” based on student ratings of alumni activity and visibility on campus.
“We have a strong alumni network that fosters connections among our alumni as well as with current students, providing engagement, internship and mentoring opportunities for our students,” says Dr. David S. Wood, senior vice president for advancement.
The Princeton Review also highlights the “passionate, well-educated” and accessible faculty as well as Wofford’s close-knit community. “Best of all, ‘each person, whether in the dining hall or the classroom, is there for your success. Knowing that we have these amazing adults there for us no matter what is something that allows us to thrive and become the best personal versions of ourselves,’” its editors write.
For more on The Princeton Review’s “The Best 385 Colleges” go to www.princetonreview.com/college-rankings/best-colleges.
Wofford recently was ranked #119 nationally and #61 among national liberal arts colleges in Kiplinger’s Personal Finance’s “Best Value Colleges” list. Also, SmartAsset recently named Wofford a best value college based on scholarships provided, starting salaries, tuition, living costs and retention rates.
By Laura H. Corbin