15 Most Beautiful College Campuses in America
Key Takeaways
- The beauty of college campuses can be a huge draw for students and can play a role in their college decision-making process.
- A beautiful college can help promote learning and well-being among students, faculty, and staff.
- The most beautiful colleges in America are known for both their architectural and natural beauty.
Why Do College Aesthetics Matter?
Many factors go into a student’s decision on where to go to college, such as location, quality of education, cost, size, sports teams, career opportunities, and more! However, one factor that continues to be important for students, but that is sometimes downplayed, is college aesthetic. In fact, according to Inside Higher Ed, nearly two thirds of students took campus aesthetic into account when making their college decision. The aesthetic of a college campus can play a considerable role in a student’s college decision and experience for multiple reasons.
Let’s explore why the beauty of college campuses in important!
First impressions matter.
If students show up for a college visit and see drab buildings and unkept lawns, they might think that the quality of education or the experience they would receive would reflect the physical appearance of that college. No one wants to fork over thousands of dollars to be depressed by their surroundings. On the other hand, if students show up to a campus with well manicured lawns, buildings with intricate stonework, and picturesque libraries, they might assume that the institution cares about the quality of buildings and therefore the quality of a student’s education. Campus aesthetic can play a role in the decision-making process even for online students.
Aesthetics might factor into learning quality.
Humans are highly impacted by their surroundings. Have you ever needed to go to a coffee shop or switch rooms to stay motivated in your work? Maybe you wanted to be somewhere with more light? The spaces around us matter in terms of our motivation, happiness, and drive. If a campus is filled with natural light, well-designed buildings that enhance focus, and green spaces, this might in turn lower students’ stress levels and improve academic performance. Additionally, if students are more drawn to beautiful institutions, then beautiful institutions might draw more students, allowing the institution to be pickier in who they admit. This means that they can increase their standards for admission.
Well-designed spaces can foster community and overall well-being.
Many of the most beautiful college campuses were built with community in mind. They might have visually appealing common areas, recreational facilities, and gardens that bring students together and foster relationships. Having a community can greatly improve a person’s mental health, not only improving academic performance but also a student’s overall college experience. Additionally, access to green spaces and recreational facilities can promote physical activity and allow for more opportunities to be active. Students with higher levels of physical activity continually prove to have better mental health and lower stress levels.
Aesthetics can make a difference in terms of staff and faculty retention.
Students aren’t the only ones attracted to a pretty campus. Staff and faculty members can also be impacted by a campus that is visually appealing and well-maintained. If staff and faculty work in an environment that is visually appealing, then this might impact their decision to stay on at the institution. Additionally, campuses with beautiful building and well kept grounds might also be a draw for potential employees.
Alumni engagement could increase.
Many alumni have sentimental attachment to their alma mater. They will remember the times they laughed with friends in Building So-And-So or traipsed through their favorite campus garden. Looking back on fond memories of their college experience might make them more willing to donate to their school to preserve the campus they remember. They want to know that their campus still stands with its shining buildings and well kept lawns just like it did when they strolled its hallowed halls.
Many of the most beautiful campuses contain historical landmarks.
Historical landmarks and buildings can be a huge draw for some students. Not only does it feel like stepping into the past to walk in the footsteps of academics of old, but it can also enrich the cultural value of a student’s college experience. Preserving structures and integrating them into the campus aesthetic can serve not only as a draw to potential students, but also as a learning tool to those currently studying there.
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The 15 Most Beautiful College Campuses in America
- 1
Flagler College
Located in St. Augustine, Florida, America’s oldest town, Flagler College is a private liberal arts college. Founded in 1968, Flagler originally started as a luxury hotel, the Ponce de Leon. The hotel was built in 1888 and is considered a masterpiece in Spanish Renaissance style. Thomas Edison himself provided power to the hotel, making it one of the first buildings with electricity. It is now a National Historic Landmark.
The main building of the Ponce de Leon is fitted with a 68-foot domed ceiling that is held up by eight hand-carved caryatids. Inside its many rooms are attractions that have drawn people from all over the world. The dining room contains the world’s largest collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass windows, and the Flagler Room includes Austrian crystal chandeliers and original hotel furniture and art.
Besides the architecture, Flagler is also located in one of the most beautiful parts of the country. Located only 5 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, Flagler’s campus is a picture of coastal beauty with its lush palm trees and tropical breezes.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Communication
- Graphic Design
- Education
What we love about Flagler University:
With a lovely facade, Flagler College’s Ponce De Leon Hall creates a unique on- campus experience.
Flagler University is ideal for students who:
Value individual attention and seek a close-knit community.
Flagler University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are looking for a bustling urban campus.
- 2
University of Washington
Located on 700 acres in Seattle, Washington, the University of Washington is a scenic wonderland with it’s spacious, tree-filled campus located on the western shore of Lake Washington. In the spring, the Quad’s 30 Yoshino cherry trees create a postcard worthy view with pink petals backdropped by red-brick buildings. The Quad has always been one of the students’ favorite outdoor areas on campus.
Drumheller Fountain, a beautiful foundation framed by rose gardens, is located on the central walkway of the campus with Mount Rainier in the distance, providing stunning views for students on their walks around campus. Other nature attractions include the University of Washington Botanic Gardens and the Washington Park Arboretum. Sylvan Grove is another draw, a grassy amphitheater with four Greek columns representing Loyalty, Industry, Faith, and Efficiency.
Some of the most captivating campus buildings include the Collegiate Gothic Suzzallo Library with its 35-foot-high stained-glass windows and 65-foot-high gilded vaulted ceilings. It is often called the “Harry Potter library”. Denny Hall is another big attraction, being the oldest building on campus and designed with castle-like turrets.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Environmental Science
- Business Administration
What we love about the University of Washington:
UW’s Henry Art Gallery showcases a collection of contemporary art, providing students with cultural enrichment and artistic inspiration.
The University of Washington is ideal for students who:
Seek a balanced campus environment where they can learn and explore the outdoors.
The University of Washington Not might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a smaller campus environment.
- 3
Berry College
Located in Mount Berry, Georgia, Berry College is the world’s largest contiguous college campus. The school owns over 27,000 acres of fields, lakes, forests, and mountains. There is a plethora of natural diversity on this campus, ranging from wetlands, oak and pine forests, agricultural land, and major rivers. These all supply students with vast opportunities of fieldwork and research in natural habitats, as well as chances to kayak, bike, and camp. Hiking is a major pastime for students as there are 88 miles of trails on campus packed with wildlife. Berry is known as “Tree Campus USA” for its many trees and stunning arboretum.
Along with its natural beauty, this campus contains stunning architecture with many historic buildings and unique sculptures. The English Gothic-inspired buildings are juxtaposed by barns and wood-rail fences. White frame buildings and log cabins also add to the mix, along with numerous reflecting pools and fountains.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Environmental Science
- Animal Science
- Business Management
- Education
- Communication
What we love about Berry College:
The peaceful and scenic walking trails provide students with the perfect setting for outdoor exploration and relaxation.
Berry College is ideal for students who:
Are nature lovers seeking experiential learning.
Berry College might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not comfortable with the outdoors and fieldwork.
- 4
The University of the South
The University of the South, also known as Sewanee, spans over 13,000 acres on the Cumberland Plateau. This location allows for stunning views over the Tennessee Valley featuring forests, lakefront bluffs, and a garden ravine that follows a stream through campus. In the spring, daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths bloom over the campus grounds, providing color and beauty to students. Abbo’s Alley, a natural spring and creek, that runs through the center of campus and lakes for fishing are located right beside the dorms.
Although the campus lies just a mile from downtown Sewanee, the university feels like a tucked away retreat. The campus features stunning Gothic-inspired architecture with stone arches and intricately designed dorm buildings. The iconic All Saints’ Chapel, inspired by the University Church at Oxford and Notre Dame in Paris, sits in the central Quad where students can enjoy time outdoors while being surrounded by historic buildings.
Popular Degree Programs:
- English Literature
- Environmental Studies
- Economics
- Biology
- Religious Studies
What we love about the University of the South
The Jessie Ball duPont Library features extensive collections, quiet study spaces, and state-of-the-art research facilities, making it a great spot for college learners.
The University of the South is ideal for students who:
Want transformative liberal arts education while on a scenic campus.
The University of the South might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer living in the city with access to a wide range of amenities.
- 5
Yale University
Located in New Haven, Connecticut, Yale University features many stunning buildings from a plethora of architectural designs. Some of the most popular buildings on campus include the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, which holds books in a six-story glass enclosed tower backed by Vermonth marble panels.
Old Campus features a courtyard filled with trees, arched walkways, and views of the famous Harkness Tower with its iconic copper clock. Sterling Memorial Library is another must-see site with its extensive sculpture and painting collection as well as hundreds of panes of stained glass. Battell Chapel and Memorial Quadrangle are also must see sites.
Yale also boasts of many beautiful places to walk around campus. Both Charles Dickens and Mark Twain called Hillhouse Avenue, a tree-lined avenue in the heart of the campus, the most beautiful street in America. As you walk along this road, you will see sites such as St. Mary’s Church. Nature walks around Yale feature plant life such as Paperbark Maple trees, Black Locust trees, and a considerable amount of English Ivy. New Haven has been nicknamed the Elm City because of the vast number of trees that line its streets and Yale’s campus is no exception.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Economics
- Political Science
- Computer Science
- Biomedical Engineering
- Law
What we love about Yale University:
The Yale Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library offers an extraordinary hub for rare literature, making it a go-to spot for scholars.
Yale University is ideal for students who:
Are intellectually curious and thrive in fast-paced learning.
Yale University might not be the best fit for students who:
Seek a more relaxed or secluded campus environment.
- 6
Vanderbilt University
Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University is a stunning campus that doubles as an expansive arboretum. Over 170 species of trees and 50 sculptures cover the sprawling 340-acres campus. Art exhibits are also on prominent display, and much of the art is created by students.
Vanderbilt’s campus also features many historic buildings such as Kirkland Hall, a Victorian Gothic style building that is considered iconic. E. Bronson Ingram College is also a beautiful feature with the building’s arched walkways, Gothic-style towers and windows, and vaulted ceilings.
The Peabody Lawn is a great place for students to enjoy the outdoor splendor with a view of the Wyatt stairs in the background. The Alumni Lawn is another area students can be surrounded by Vanderbilt’s intricate buildings and enjoy nature.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Medicine
- Law
- Engineering
- Business Administration
- Education
What we love about the Vanderbilt University
Lined with a collection of trees and gardens, the Vanderbilt Arboretum offers students a peaceful oasis where they can study or take leisurely walks.
Vanderbilt University is ideal for students who:
Value interdisciplinary learning and seek a campus full of greenery.
Vanderbilt University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are afraid of insects and uncomfortable in gardens.
- 7
University of Notre Dame
Located in Notre Dame, Indiana, the University of Notre Dame contains beautiful buildings backdropped by lush quadrangles. The most notable feature of Notre Dame’s campus is the Golden Dome on the Main Building. This dome is particularly breathtaking at sunset when it reflects the warm light. The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes is another huge attraction for visitors wishing to see a picturesque cave created from boulders from surrounding farms.
The 1,250 acres of campus property is expertly maintained with sustainable practices and plantings. The landscapers use native plants to create a healthy ecosystem for all living creatures on campus. Three of the dorm buildings have vegetated green roofs and there is a colorful butterfly garden near the Grotto.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Finance
- Mechanical Engineering
- Political Science
- Biological Sciences
- Computer Science
What we love about the University of Notre Dame
The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes serves as a serene outdoor sanctuary for reflection and spiritual renewal.
The University of Notre Dame is ideal for students who:
Are religious and spiritually inclined.
The University of Notre Dame might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not enthusiastic about sustainability and its practices.
- 8
Indiana University-Bloomington
Located in Bloomington, Indiana, Indiana University-Bloomington contains many beautiful pieces of stonework. The white, limestone buildings are a huge draw for potential students wishing to be on a campus that feels both classic and modern. One building in particular that depicts this is the Indiana Memorial Union, one of the first buildings on campus that many students believe looks like Hogwarts.
Beck Chapel, another picturesque place on campus, is a small idyllic chapel surrounded by trees. It is a popular wedding venue, as is the Rose Well House, both with Dunn Woods as their woodland backdrop. Perhaps the most recognized site on campus is Sample Gates - limestone gates marking the entrance to campus.
The campus contains many scenic nature areas, including a rustic bridge over a babbling creek. The Biology Greenhouse that features rainforest, desert, and insectivorous plants gives students a variety of plant life to study and enjoy. Dunn Woods, located on the southwest side of campus, contains brick sidewalks and centuries-old trees and is one of the more popular attractions. The Cox Arboretum contains many trees, a idyllic pond, and diverse plant life. It is also surrounded by some of the more popular buildings on campus, namely the Wells Library, the Global and International Studies Building, and the Eskenazi Museum of Art.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Education
What we love about Indiana University-Bloomington
With its classic white limestone architecture, the Indiana Memorial Union creates a timeless and enchanting campus atmosphere.
Indiana University-Bloomington is ideal for students who:
Are seeking a well-rounded college experience, balancing academic and extracurricular learning.
Indiana University-Bloomington might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a small campus environment.
- 9
Bard College
Located in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York, Bard College features a broad range of architecture styles including Post Modern, Collegiate, and Greek Revival. Perhaps the most famous structure on campus is the Frank Gehry’s Fisher Center, named by The New Yorker as possibly the best small concert hall in the United States. The building’s curved structure is made of brushed stainless steel and glass. Other famous attractions include the Hoffman Memorial Library and Blithewood Manor’s walled Italian gardens.
There are numerous walkways around Bard’s campus, many giving great views of the Catskill Mountains in the distance. The natural beauty surrounding Bard College is enough to draw many students to the peaceful meadows surrounding it. Bard also has a farm on the northern edge of campus that is used to teach students how to preserve nature.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Literature
- Political Studies
- Environmental Science
- Music
- Film and Electronic Arts
What we love about Bard College
Designed by Frank Gehry, the Richard B. Fisher Center for the Performing Arts stands as an excellent architectural masterpiece and hosts world-class events.
Bard College is ideal for students who:
Are interested in liberal arts education with a focus on creativity and community engagement.
Bard College might not be the best fit for students who:
Are looking for many recreational options.
- 10
University of Hawaii at Mānoa
Located on the island of Honolulu, the University of Hawaii at Mānoa embraces natural and tropical beauty. The 320-acre campus that contains over 6,000 plants and more than 700 species is known for its natural diversity. It is one of the only two arboretums in Hawaii. The campus is surrounded by mountains and lush forests and is a short drive from the beach.
Along with all of its natural beauty, the University of Hawaii at Mānoa also features stunning buildings including the Kennedy Theatre, Jefferson Hall, and Bachman Hall. Many of the buildings are in the modernist design with white concrete walls and large windows. You will also see stunning Doric columns as you walk through the central courtyard. The buildings were designed to take advantage of the natural light.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Marine Biology
- Hawaiian Studies
- Tourism Management
- Engineering
- Nursing
What we love about the University of Hawaii at Mānoa
Located in Kaneohe Bay, the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology offers many opportunities for research and hands-on learning in marine conservation.
The University of Hawaii at Mānoa is ideal for students who:
Are passionate about exploring diverse cultures and studying marine and environmental sciences.
The University of Hawaii at Mānoa might not be the best fit for students who:
Find it challenging to live at a slower pace and immerse themselves in the island life.
- 11
University of San Diego
Located in San Deigo, California, the Spanish Renaissance-style campus of the University of San Diego portrays intricate ironwork, carved woodwork, and stunning buildings. One of the most famous buildings, the Immaculata Chapel, has a striking blue dome and bronze front door, adding to the already stunning aesthetic. The Student Life Pavilion is another draw for students, specifically the rooftop view.
This university is in a prime location. The Pacific Ocean is just a few miles away and students can see the water from campus. These ocean views paired with palm trees only add to the appeal of this university. Students have also reported the Institute of Peace and Justice as one of their favorite views of the city.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Business Administration
- Nursing
- Engineering
- Psychology
- International Relations
What we love about the University of San Diego
The Immaculata Chapel stands out with its striking blue dome and bronze front door, adding to the campus’s aesthetic charm.
The University of San Diego is ideal for students who:
Seek a vibrant coastal school setting.
The University of San Diego might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not ready for the high cost of living in San Diego.
- 12
Princeton University
Located in Princeton, New Jersey, Princeton University features beautiful Collegiate Gothic-style buildings. Nassau Hall, the oldest building on campus and the former home of the Continental Congress, is picturesque with its ivy coverage and intricate stonework. The inside of the building was twice destroyed by fire and is now the epitome of Italianate design.
FitzRandolph Gate, the official entrance to the campus, is also a huge attraction with its wrought iron structure. Many students stop for photos in front of this gate to mark the beginning of their academic experience at Princeton. Other attractions include the Princeton University Chapel, featuring stunning stained glass windows. For those who like variety in their aesthetic, the Princeton University Art Museum holds art from around the world.
Princeton features many outdoor attractions on its 500-acre campus, such as Lake Carnegie and the famous Prospect Garden. While Prospect Garden is the most popular garden on campus, don’t overlook the Chapel Garden, Forbes Garden, or Grad School Garden (also known as the “Secret Garden”). There are also many idyllic trails covering the campus for students to explore Princeton’s hidden gems.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Public Policy
- Engineering
- Biology
What we love about the Princeton University
The Princeton University Art Museum showcases an impressive collection of artwork, providing students with opportunities for artistic exploration.
Princeton University is ideal for students who:
Appreciate a blend of historic charm and modern facilities.
Princeton University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a lively campus with nightlife experiences.
- 13
Bryn Mawr College, Pennsylvania
Located in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, Bryn Mawr College was designed after Oxford and Cambridge universities and captures the Collegiate Gothic style. One of the most visited buildings on campus is the Great Hall/Old Library, now a National Historic Landmark. This library encloses the Cloisters, a large open courtyard, a picturesque spot on campus. Pembroke Hall is yet another architectural wonder, a dorm building that feels like architecture straight out of a classic English town.
Frederick Law Olmsted, the designer of Central Park in New York City, helped design the layout of the campus in order to take full advantage of its 135 acres. The trails and walkways allow students to enjoy the lovely nature scenes.
Popular Degree Programs:
- English
- Psychology
- Biology
- Political Science
- Mathematics
What We Love about Bryn Mawr College
With its medieval-inspired design and quiet atmosphere, the Cloisters courtyard provides a peaceful retreat for students.
Bryn Mawr College is ideal for students who:
Appreciate challenging academics and a beautiful campus setting.
Bryn Mawr College might not be the best fit for students who:
Are looking for a city atmosphere and lots of school amenities.
- 14
Harvard University
Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Harvard University’s muted red bricks and mortar provides a stunning picture. There are many attractions around campus such as Harvard Yard, Widener Library, and Memorial Church. Harvard Yard, the oldest part of the campus, is over 22 acres of courtyards and quadrangles enclosed by 27 gates. Widener Library, the largest private and university-owned library in the U.S., is picturesque with its white pillars and intricately designed halls. Memorial Church features neoclassical architecture and contains stunning vaulted ceilings. These are just three of the many attractions Harvard has to offer.
Harvard University also is also known for its natural beauty. The campus is home to many beautiful gardens, such as the Botanic Gardens and the Arnold Arboretum. This arboretum houses over 2,000 species of plants and has over 15 miles of trails for students to explore. It also provides an excellent view of the Charles River. If students wish to explore Charles River, there is a beach on campus where students can swim in the clear water or simply enjoy the view.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Government
- Psychology
- Biology
What We Love about Harvard University
The Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Library offers over 3 million books and resources, allowing extensive research and learning.
Harvard University is ideal for students who:
Are highly motivated and seeking a challenging academic environment.
Harvard University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a more personalized approach to education.
- 15
Furman University
Located in Greensville, South Carolina, Furman University is situated on 750 acres next to a Swan Lake and in an idyllic wooded area. On this Williamsburg-inspired campus, there are many beautiful buildings as well as a picturesque golf course, beautiful foliage and plant life, and a replica of Henry David Thoreau’s house. There is also a plethora of trails for students to explore the natural beauty.
Perhaps the most famous attraction on campus, Bell Tower, is a Florentine-style bell tower and is situated on a small peninsula right off the lake’s edge. There is also the Place of Peace, a Japanese temple, next to the school’s Asia Garden. Irises, bamboo, and camellias bloom in this garden and provide a place of tranquility and beauty for students. Pillared buildings and roses make every part of this campus picturesque.
Popular Degree Programs:
- Business Administration
- Health Sciences
- Psychology
- Education
- Political Science
What We Love about Furman University
The Furman Lake allows students to unwind with its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings.
Furman University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for a laid-back learning environment.
Furman University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a place with numerous off-campus entertainment options.
How Much Do Aesthetics Impact A Student’s College Decision?
The visual aesthetic of a college is not just about the superficial appearance but about what impacts a student’s educational experience and the institution’s identity. Aesthetics impact students’ college decisions more than they know. Many colleges market themselves with a pretty picture of the campus grounds and a historic spot on campus. This can be a huge pull for many students to at least check the college out.
If a student does decide to look into the college, campus tours and visits are meant to leave students with an overview of the campus and create a lasting impression. Colleges want to show off their best sides to entice students to apply. It’s hard not to be drawn to picturesque places such as Notre Dame’s Golden Dome, Yale’s Sterling Memorial Library, or Furman University’s Bell Tower.
The biggest aesthetic factors that impact a student’s decision tend to be natural beauty and green spaces, historic and modern architecture, well-designed social spaces, recreational and athletic facilities, and artistic elements and cultural spaces.
In the next section we will explore the top 15 most beautiful college campuses. Our rankings were determined based on the following criteria:
- How many people visit the attractions on each campus per year
- How well the campus incorporated both architectural and natural beauty into its design
- The historical significance of the campus’s structures
Those interested in campus aesthetics might also be interested in seeing campuses during their shining moments, namely holidays. Check out our rankings of the best Halloween campus traditions and colleges with the most cheerful Christmas traditions.
Back to TopStudent Submitted Questions about the Most Beautiful College Campuses in America
We discussed the topic of beautiful college campuses with current college students to see what questions they had. Below you’ll find these questions and our answers to them provided by our editor, Chloe Dembski. If you have questions of your own, you can submit your question using the form below and we’ll answer it right here in this article!
Cassie asked, “Why are college campuses so beautiful?”
There are many reasons college campuses are beautiful but a large part of it has to do with the values and history of a place. Many colleges represent their values in their architecture and natural attractions, so it’s important to them to put effort into the upkeep and beauty of a place.
Colleges and universities are also places of cultural and historical significance, so it makes sense that people would want to preserve this. Many colleges double as museums, galleries, and culture halls, so the aesthetic appeal is a given.
Naomi, “What makes a college campus beautiful?”
Colleges typically put a considerable amount of effort into their buildings looking harmonious, cohesive, and well-maintained. Add the open spaces and beautiful landscaping work that is typical of a college campus and it’s hard not to think a campus is beautiful. Additionally, because colleges are places of learning and innovation, this will be reflected in the institution’s artwork and landmarks.
Beauty is in large part subjective, so while our ranking is based on largely objective measures, there’s a LOT of subjectivity in this matter. What you find beautiful is probably not exactly the same as many other people. However, colleges do try to include aspects of design that the majority of people are drawn to.
Will asked, “Should I assume a college won’t give me a high quality education if their campus isn’t that great?”
No! Again, beauty is in large part subjective and it surely isn’t everything. The quality of your college experience will be based on many factors that have nothing to do with aesthetic. When looking into colleges, make sure to take into account a variety of factors, such as academic standards, student outcomes, extracurricular opportunities, and the institution’s culture.