News

Drake University recently was named one of the best colleges and universities in the Midwest according to the Princeton Review rankings released this week. 

The University is among 158 institutions selected by Princeton Review as a Best in the Midwest school and one of 640 featured in the 2010 Best Colleges: Region by Region.

"We chose Drake University and the other terrific schools we recommend as our 'regional best' colleges primarily for their excellent academic programs," said Robert Franek, vice president of Princeton Review's publishing. "We also take into account what each school's customers -- their students -- report to us about their campus experiences at them on our 80-question student survey."

"We are particularly pleased by this recognition from the Princeton Review, because it is based heavily on feedback from our current students," said Drake President David Maxwell. 

"We consider our mission statement -- to provide an exceptional learning environment that prepares students for meaningful personal lives, professional accomplishment and responsible global citizenship -- to be a promise to our students and their parents, to our alumni and to the community. This kind of response from our students reinforces the fact that we are keeping that promise."

To generate the rankings, the Princeton Review surveys students to rate their own schools on several issues -- from the accessibility of their professors to quality of the campus food -- and answer questions about themselves, their fellow students and their campus life.  

Some student comments quoted in the profile on Drake are: 

• Drake "combines specialized academic programs with a small school feel in a way that promotes successful learning and professional preparation."
• "Drake really knows how to tailor the college experience for each person going through. The school puts an emphasis on professional development and preparation that is heads above the rest."
• Undergrads also enjoy "a great network of graduates that stay and work around the Des Moines area. They then come back and speak in classes, and often times have connections that can help students land internships."
• Students are "serious about their study but they also know how to have fun," balancing both "very well."