Hobart and William Smith Colleges (HWS) have once again been recognized as one of the nation’s top institutions in the Princeton Review’s 2025 Best 390 Colleges guide. The prestigious ranking places HWS among the top 25 colleges and universities for career services, internships, alumni network, student happiness, campus engagement, and environmental commitment.
“This recognition underscores the value of our relationship-rich educational environment,” said HWS President Mark D. Gearan. He emphasized that the college’s focus on both curricular and co-curricular opportunities, including career services, global education, and community service, has been crucial in preparing students for successful and fulfilling lives.
The Princeton Review rankings are based on student survey responses, reflecting their experiences on campus. HWS made notable appearances on the “Best for Happiness,” “Best for Career Services,” “Best for Internships,” and “Best Alumni Network” lists. Students praised the accessibility of internships and the active involvement of alumni on campus, supported by the Salisbury Center for Career, Professional and Experiential Education.
HWS also earned a spot on the “Colleges That Create Futures” list, which highlights schools that help students apply their talents through practical experiences. The college’s commitment to environmental sustainability was recognized with its inclusion in the “Green Matters: Everyone Cares About Conservation” list, celebrating HWS’s achievement of climate neutrality, a milestone reached by only 11 colleges nationwide.
For the first time, HWS was named on the “Most Active Student Governments on Campus” list, acknowledging the impact of student governance on campus life. This accolade further solidifies HWS’s reputation as a leader in fostering student engagement and leadership.
Earlier in 2024, HWS was also recognized as a Best Value College by the Princeton Review for the ninth consecutive year, highlighting the college’s excellence in academics, affordability, and career outcomes.

