TCU students said a combination of strong academic support, vibrant campus life and meaningful traditions makes them happy.
“The sense of community that I feel here is something that I have not felt anywhere else,” senior economics major Gabriel Fernandez said. “Whether it’s on game day or a random Wednesday in class, it always feels like you belong to this place.”
For the third consecutive year, TCU’s spirit, culture and facilities are some of the reasons why this university has been ranked No.1 in the Princeton Review’s ranking for the happiest students in the nation.
The ranking is based on a 98-question student questionnaire centered around academics, administration, life at college and fellow students.
“The resources and opportunities that TCU gives to everyone for our future stand out from other places,” graduate student Luana Araco said. “I have started my professional journey this fall, and everywhere I go there is a good opinion from TCU.”
The university earned additional top honors including:
- No. 2 Best quality of life
- No. 3 Best Run Colleges
- No. 4 Most Beautiful Campus
- No. 5 Best athletic facilities
- No. 6 Best college dorms
- No. 9 Best health services
- No. 10 Best college library
“Everyone who works in this campus is always willing to help and has the biggest smile, I think that is what makes the biggest difference and makes this place so special,” junior psychology major Emma Glagua said. “It feels like home.”
Students said one of the most meaningful aspects of TCU was its strong sense of community.
“You feel genuinely supported at TCU, whether it is a professor remembering your name, classmates coming together or meeting new friends when the whole community comes together to cheer on the football team,” Lee White, a first-year political science major, said.
Students consistently praised the university’s ability to blend big-school spirit with small-school intimacy. Many students said they enjoy the benefits that come small class sizes and big social opportunities.
“What makes TCU stand out is how personal it is,” said Livy Stroble, a junior history major. “You’re not just a number; you’re part of something bigger, and people here really care.”
