2021 Best College Food in America

About this List

The 2021 Best College Food ranking is based on meal plan costs and student reviews. Top-ranked colleges offer outstanding on-campus dining—students can easily access healthy, quality food across a wide range of cuisines and dietary preferences. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

Best College Food

1,374 results

University of California - Los Angeles
4 Year
LOS ANGELES, CA
Rating 3.94 out of 5 5,209 reviews
#1 Best College Food in America
Freshman: My first quarter at UCLA was not what I had dreamed it would be. However, the school is making the most of it! Traditional events are still held online to the best of their ability, and they offer many opportunities to socialize with others. There are many student organizations to join with interests in nearly everything. I was never drawn to Greek Life, but at UCLA, the sororities were very welcoming, and joining was the best decision I made this quarter. It was a gateway to meeting new people and making friends. In terms of academics, my professors were flexible with our schedules and empathized with us during this pandemic. The one thing that I would change, though, would be the tuition and fees. The payments are quite expensive for being online and not being able to use any of those resources in person. Overall, I do not regret my decision of attending UCLA and considering the circumstances, I enjoyed my first quarter!
Read 5,209 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
12% Acceptance Rate
$15,718 Net Price
1300-1530 SAT Range
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Virginia Tech
4 Year
BLACKSBURG, VA
Rating 3.96 out of 5 3,930 reviews
#2 Best College Food in America
Senior: I love Virginia Tech! The college has a national brand and solid academics at a very reasonable in-state tuition rate. The Hokie Stone buildings give a very traditional vibe, while the attitude of the school is to push the limits technologically and otherwise. The engineering program is great, the athletics are competitive, and the college is both disability conscious and military friendly. The campus and surrounding areas are beautiful, and the people here are amazing. It is very easy to find great friends, whether you are more interested in physical fitness, gaming, studying, or playing Quiditch, trust me, there is a group on campus for you!
Read 3,930 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
70% Acceptance Rate
$18,449 Net Price
1180-1390 SAT Range
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University of Massachusetts - Amherst
4 Year
AMHERST, MA
Rating 3.71 out of 5 3,580 reviews
#3 Best College Food in America
Sophomore: UMass Amherst is an amazing, financially viable option for in-state students. As an in-state student, I can state that I am paying a very reasonable price for my education. I have enjoyed every class I have taken so far and have had amazing, dedicated professors. There is an abundance of extracurricular activities to choose from and there is always something to do on campus. It is easy to get caught up in the party culture however, it is just as easy to avoid it. Downtown Amherst and the surrounding towns, namely Northampton, are fun to explore and are easily accessible by the PVTA bus system. The campus food is amazing; the food does get repetitive at times, but there are many dining halls that offer different options daily. Overall, I am thrilled with UMass and feel that I am getting more than my money's worth!
Read 3,580 Reviews
grade A
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
64% Acceptance Rate
$22,927 Net Price
1190-1390 SAT Range
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St. Norbert College
4 Year
DE PERE, WI
Rating 3.75 out of 5 697 reviews
#4 Best College Food in America
Sophomore: It is honestly a great school. Everyone, especially the staff, is super friendly, and the campus is beautiful! Food is good compared to what I hear from other schools. The only downside I have had at SNC is housing. The housing is old, and hard to get into the nice ones. Other than that, it is a great college experience full of amazing professors, and a beautiful environment!
Read 697 Reviews
grade B+
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
80% Acceptance Rate
$26,540 Net Price
1000-1300 SAT Range
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California Baptist University
4 Year
RIVERSIDE, CA
Rating 4.09 out of 5 2,666 reviews
#5 Best College Food in America
Graduate Student: I love how the staff is very approachable and understanding, they are willing to help their students succeed in every area possible. The courses are interesting helping students to stay engaged in their academics! They have amazon worship services that allows student to grow academically and spiritually. I am
Currently a graduate student, and I wish I went to this school for my undergrad. I would
Recommend this school for anyone looking to grow naturally, spiritually, and academically.
Read 2,666 Reviews
grade B+
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
78% Acceptance Rate
$23,055 Net Price
990-1210 SAT Range
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St. John Fisher College
4 Year
ROCHESTER, NY
Rating 3.69 out of 5 554 reviews
#6 Best College Food in America
Junior: St. John Fisher College has a lot of wonderful aspects about it, including: the food, the professors, and the local area. For sure my favorite part about attending Fisher is having delightful "home-cooked" meals.
Something I wish SJFC had more of is diversity. SJFC is a predominately white community. While I feel no harm being on campus as a colored individual, I think that having more diversity and inclusiveness on campus would improve the experiences of all students. I believe that learning about different cultures and ethnicities, especially in this day and age, is important to the success of communities, states, and our country as a whole.
Read 554 Reviews
grade B+
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
64% Acceptance Rate
$28,468 Net Price
1070-1260 SAT Range
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University of San Diego
4 Year
SAN DIEGO, CA
Rating 3.68 out of 5 1,865 reviews
#7 Best College Food in America
Niche User: Absolutely beautiful campus; great food in a gorgeous dining hall; great location , close to everything
Read 1,865 Reviews
grade A
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
49% Acceptance Rate
$35,936 Net Price
1190-1370 SAT Range
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James Madison University
4 Year
HARRISONBURG, VA
Rating 3.81 out of 5 3,015 reviews
#8 Best College Food in America
Alum: I loved going to James Madison University! I graduated in May 2018 with a major in Media Arts and Design (concentration in Interactive Design) and a minor in Art History. During my time at JMU, I was very involved in Student Ambassadors (tour guides), Madison Dance, and Alternative Breaks. As a black student, I was a little worried about attending JMU since the minority population is pretty small but I had a great experience. I never encountered any overt racism or felt any bias against me from my fellow students and professors. There were times though that I felt a little uncomfortable in the surrounding area of campus. I would occasionally see confederate flags, which left me feeling a bit cautious even though I didn't have any negative experiences (especially since I come from a very liberal and majority-black area). After graduation, I was able to find a job as a Graphic Designer within 3 months and I felt very prepared to complete the tasks that came with my job.
Read 3,015 Reviews
grade A
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
77% Acceptance Rate
$18,708 Net Price
1120-1290 SAT Range
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Washington University in St. Louis
4 Year
SAINT LOUIS, MO
Rating 4.08 out of 5 1,474 reviews
#9 Best College Food in America
Sophomore: As a parent of a sophmore in Visual Arts and Writing programs, I feel so grateful she got in. First of all she got a full ride, they removed a massive strain off of our family and did it completely and thoroughly. She had met and spoken with several faculty members before applying (Early Decision) and visited the campus, and they were so helpful and supportive it really allowed us to make a confident Early Decision. My daughter is gifted, but shy shy shy, and her mother is Brazilian, so VERY attached and we worried about sending her away. It was tough, but the support of programs like Deneb Stars and the many other programs (including late night escorts for safety) allowed her to make the leap and find her feet. Once the pandemic hit, WashU was amongst the first half dozen schools to move online (they are now hybrid, my daughter is working from home). The faculty and admin prioritized their health first, while the coursework has remained rigorous. She is thriving. A+ response Washu!
Read 1,474 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
14% Acceptance Rate
$27,108 Net Price
1480-1560 SAT Range
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Bates College
4 Year
LEWISTON, ME
Rating 3.96 out of 5 375 reviews
#10 Best College Food in America
Sophomore: I am a huge proponent of Bates College! Bates has extraordinary dining (serving anything ranging from grilled cheese to teriyaki tofu), beautiful brick buildings, an open quad that people use to chat and play lawn games in, a pond with outdoor seating and wildlife, and a couple of stunning athletic fields. The real magic is in the people on campus however, everyone is friendly, accepting, and passionate about their studies, sports, hobbies, or any other sort of extracurriculars. Even with this hard-work mentality, there are plenty of clubs, organized activities, and areas off campus to have fun with your friends. There's even a ski mountain close by!
Read 375 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
12% Acceptance Rate
$26,669 Net Price
1385-1460 SAT Range
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Hendrix College
4 Year
CONWAY, AR
Rating 3.76 out of 5 474 reviews
#11 Best College Food in America
Alum: Hendrix pairs a rigorous academic experience with a tight knit community that made me feel right at home. The school places a premium on critical thinking, writing ability, and multidisciplinary, liberal arts education. Its Odyssey Program provided me with the tools and opportunities I needed pursue novel academic and professional development. The school did a terrific job of encouraging growth and nurturing my progress along the way. Hendrix’s faculty and staff are top tier professionals, but they are also deeply engaged in student interests and wellbeing. I had a terrific experience!
Read 474 Reviews
grade A
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
70% Acceptance Rate
$20,859 Net Price
1150-1360 SAT Range
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University of Georgia
4 Year
ATHENS, GA
Rating 3.96 out of 5 5,463 reviews
#12 Best College Food in America
Senior: The University of Georgia provides so many resources and outlets for students to grow their identity and passions. I love the atmosphere it provides for students to transition into the next stage of life with the tailgates, the athletics, the traditions, and the activities. Downtown Athens is a special place to many in the community, and it truly is like no other. This place draws the attention of those who enjoy food, sightseeing, and having fun. UGA is an incredible school with so many opportunities and genuine people. I have met some of my closest friends here, and I have also been able to challenge myself. The College of Education has pushed me to think beyond my comfort zone, and I am so thankful for the professors and experiences, especially study abroads! Something that I would love to see change is the diversity and integration of the Athens community with UGA students. It would be incredibly powerful for this community to unite and grow together while supporting one another!
Read 5,463 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
45% Acceptance Rate
$15,961 Net Price
1240-1420 SAT Range
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Cornell University
4 Year
ITHACA, NY
Rating 3.74 out of 5 1,962 reviews
#13 Best College Food in America
Alum: Supportive Professors and administration. No shortage of ways to get involved on campus socially. You will be surrounded by warm, intellectual, and hard-working peers. Weather can be unpleasant for those used to warmer climates. Career resources could be better, and students approach job fairs in a somewhat cut-throat manner. I have heard that the same is true for certain undergraduate majors/pre-professional tracks, such as pre-med and engineering. Overall, a memorable and wonderful place to go to school as an undergrad-- Ithaca is gorges! You will work hard, learn a great deal, and make long-lasting connections.
Read 1,962 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
11% Acceptance Rate
$28,921 Net Price
1400-1560 SAT Range
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Ashland University
4 Year
ASHLAND, OH
Rating 3.68 out of 5 747 reviews
#14 Best College Food in America
Junior: Ashland University is a small school, but it's a really great school. There are plenty of food options, and the dorms are pretty well kept (I recommend Myers hall!) The professors actually care for you and want you to succeed, and since it's a small school, they actually know who you are and form a connection with you. Not to mention it's a beautiful campus, more then once I've had to stop and admire the view. As a private school, they do require 1 religion core, and the only change I would like to see is that there were more class options to fill this requirement. Overall, I highly recommend Ashland to anybody!
Read 747 Reviews
grade B minus
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
71% Acceptance Rate
$19,758 Net Price
1000-1190 SAT Range
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University of Oregon
4 Year
EUGENE, OR
Rating 3.73 out of 5 3,524 reviews
#15 Best College Food in America
Niche User: I love the communication, campus, and activities the University of Oregon has to offer! My experience has been nothing but welcoming and pleasant as an incoming freshman. I am not afraid to reach out to my councilor or students. I am so drawn to the fact that Eugene is a college town and all the benefits that would present to all the students.
Read 3,524 Reviews
grade A minus
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
82% Acceptance Rate
$16,080 Net Price
1100-1310 SAT Range
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Saint Anselm College
4 Year
MANCHESTER, NH
Rating 3.6 out of 5 553 reviews
#16 Best College Food in America
Alum: As soon as I first set foot on the Saint Anselm College campus in late 2015, I knew it was the perfect school for me. During my four years there, I got to know so many fantastic people, both fellow students and faculty, that have shaped my life and led me down life and career paths I couldn't even have imagined. I had the absolute best time here, and I strongly encourage anyone looking for a close-knit college community with tons of opportunities to take on leadership roles and get to know everyone on campus to apply here!
Read 553 Reviews
grade B
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
75% Acceptance Rate
$34,164 Net Price
1140-1300 SAT Range
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Muhlenberg College
4 Year
ALLENTOWN, PA
Rating 3.52 out of 5 469 reviews
#17 Best College Food in America
Senior: Going to Muhlenberg has been the best life decision I've made so far. I am originally from California and was initially very nervous to go to college at all, but after learning about Muhlenberg and working with its admissions team, I knew that moving all the way across the country to study there was the right choice. Every day since then has only reaffirmed that decision. The students at Muhlenberg are kind, welcoming, intelligent, supportive, inspiring, innovative, and ambitious, which breeds an excellent campus community and learning environment. There are countless opportunities to discover new subject areas, explore the world, try new things (whether that be starting a club or doing research, etc), and prepare for a bright career path and future. By the end of my time at Berg, I felt prepared to pursue my professional goals and make a difference in the world. Go Mules!
Read 469 Reviews
grade A minus
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
66% Acceptance Rate
$33,603 Net Price
1150-1340 SAT Range
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Liberty University
4 Year
LYNCHBURG, VA
Rating 4.08 out of 5 7,470 reviews
#18 Best College Food in America
Sophomore: Liberty University's online program has been superb. The professors are always encouraging their students and willing to ensure each student personally understands the material. Though the professors work toward students' academic excellence, they emphasize faith and a relationship with God as the core of everything they do. The course content is engaging and multifaceted, with videos, presentations, and supplemental resources in addition to easy-to-navigate textbooks. When I call the university with questions, the staff are kind and eager to help and provide answers efficiently. Go Flames!
Read 7,470 Reviews
grade B+
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
51% Acceptance Rate
$28,181 Net Price
1040-1260 SAT Range
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St. Olaf College
4 Year
NORTHFIELD, MN
Rating 3.67 out of 5 728 reviews
#19 Best College Food in America
Freshman: For a lot of prospective students, the religious affiliation of this school puts them off, and I can say that I was skeptical about it myself, however, while the school is affiliated with the Lutheran Church it isn't overtly religious or forced onto you. The college is quite liberal and welcoming of students from different backgrounds and identities including LGBTQ+ students and other religions. Another thing that I have been pleasantly surprised with is downtown Northfield. To outsiders, it seems way too small and dreary when actually it's quite the contrary. There are the most wonderful quaint cafes and shops downtown that make for a nice break from academics or Saturday brunch with friends- my favorite cafe is "Goodbye Blue Monday". Being a vibrant college town, the social and party scene isn't limited or boring EVER because Carleton College is just across the river and the students from the two colleges get along well and have joint events.
Read 728 Reviews
grade A
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
48% Acceptance Rate
$27,779 Net Price
1190-1430 SAT Range
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Bowdoin College
4 Year
BRUNSWICK, ME
Rating 4.11 out of 5 702 reviews
#20 Best College Food in America
Junior: I have enjoyed my experience at Bowdoin thus far! The professors are all extremely knowledgable, kind, and caring. The students are unique, fun, great people.
Read 702 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
9% Acceptance Rate
$23,808 Net Price
1360-1510 SAT Range
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Wesleyan University
4 Year
MIDDLETOWN, CT
Rating 3.76 out of 5 710 reviews
#21 Best College Food in America
Junior: Wesleyan is an incredibly special educational experience. You have the opportunity to experiment in a variety of disciplines, with access to professors excited about their areas of focus. The people you are surrounded by are vibrant and intent on creating a unique community of support. This is a challenging school- socially and academically- you will learn much about yourself as a person and how you exist in community. Wesleyan is here to welcome all incoming students and excited for their beautiful addition to the community.
Read 710 Reviews
grade A+
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
16% Acceptance Rate
$21,853 Net Price
1300-1480 SAT Range
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Kennesaw State University
4 Year
KENNESAW, GA
Rating 3.7 out of 5 4,660 reviews
#22 Best College Food in America
Graduate Student: I enjoyed Kennesaw State University due to its diversity of students. You are immersed in a cultural environment that allows you to gain new knowledge of various people. Also, they offered helpful and exciting programs within The College of Science and Mathematics, to open my self to better academic/occupational opportunities. I truly appreciated my experience there, I truly grew and enjoyed my college life.

However, the only grievance I have with them were most to all the school fees. From tuition to housing, everything was just expensive with them. The application fees were unnecessarily high. I just wish they could have went easy on the cost of attending and living. Thank God for the scholarships I earned, they aided my financial experience. Other than that, I enjoyed my time at KSU!
Read 4,660 Reviews
grade B
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
75% Acceptance Rate
$17,175 Net Price
1050-1230 SAT Range
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The Culinary Institute of America
4 Year
HYDE PARK, NY
Rating 4.14 out of 5 1,050 reviews
#23 Best College Food in America
Senior: There is a reason that the CIA is one of the best culinary schools in America. One of those reasons are because of how much experience you get from the qualified teachers who work there. There are many kitchen classes that teach you a variety of techniques. As a baking and pastry student, I get the opportunities to learn about breads, cakes, pastries, and confections (like chocolates and jellies) in relatively detailed classes, even though most kitchen classes are only 3 weeks to learn everything. Then I get to work in restaurant classes that use to serve the public (pre-pandemic times), but now still serve students.

It's a tough school with a difficult program, but if you're willing to work hard it is worth the effort. There are many opportunities to find work during/after school, and I already have offers of places to work after school. Definitely worth it!
Read 1,050 Reviews
grade B minus
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
98% Acceptance Rate
$30,095 Net Price
— SAT Range
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University of Dayton
4 Year
DAYTON, OH
Rating 3.86 out of 5 1,396 reviews
#24 Best College Food in America
Junior: The college search process prior to UD was tough. I had been accepted into cheaper colleges, ‘higher ranked’ colleges, I had been accepted into closer colleges, and more, but after touring campus and learning about the UD community, I knew without a doubt that Dayton was the best overall college by far for me. Between the absolutely stunning campus, one of a kind student neighborhood, beautiful chapel, and genuinely kind people, my college decision was not difficult. Dayton's academic program is strong enough to open doors to anywhere someone wants to work towards, but the most valuable learning comes from outside class. UD's community holistically grows individuals into the best versions of themselves, provides happiness and great mental balance, and is a ton of fun. Cannot recommend enough!
Read 1,396 Reviews
grade A
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
72% Acceptance Rate
$33,372 Net Price
1120-1320 SAT Range
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Florida International University
4 Year
MIAMI, FL
Rating 3.72 out of 5 6,950 reviews
#25 Best College Food in America
Sophomore: Florida International University has been an enriching and diversifying experience! I've come across many like-minded individuals who strive to take on every day challenges to accomplish what will someday become their future. From among those individuals I've made incredible friendships, and created not just a loyal but loving support group! College is a wonderful experience that has taught me to two great important lessons, to ask (it never hurts to reach out for help) and to fight for what you want to achieve. Once you've found the major for you its just a question of hard work, determination, and finding the right fit for you. Talk to your professors! Connect with them! Because you never know what opportunities might arise from that interaction! Keep a planner, meet up with your advisor (get to know them!), keep track of your credits, and honestly have fun! This is the time to expand your horizons, and find out who you really want to be! Make smart decisions and define your future!
Read 6,950 Reviews
grade A minus
Overall Niche Grade
grade A+
Campus Food
58% Acceptance Rate
$9,888 Net Price
1110-1280 SAT Range
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South University - Richmond
4 Year
GLEN ALLEN, VA
Rating 3.78 out of 5 156 reviews
Niche User: If you are looking for a small, dedicated and incredibly well run university that can provide you with an incredible education and a pathway to a great career, South University-Richmond is a wonderful choice! South gives you a flexible way to get an Associates, Bachelor, Masters or Doctorate degree in person or virtually. Great, great school!
Read 156 Reviews
grade C
Overall Niche Grade
100% Acceptance Rate
$20,681 Net Price
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Roanoke College
4 Year
SALEM, VA
Rating 3.64 out of 5 732 reviews
Sophomore: I love Roanoke College! I didn't ever expect to go here and it sort of just happened. It was originally my backup school, but I loved it so much and everything fell into place. The size of the college is wonderful-- you'll never have a professor who doesn't know who you are. It's big enough that you see new people every day, and small enough that you'll wave hi to at least one person you know walking across campus. The environment is welcoming, and campus safety does a great job in their dealings with students and with the more serious issues that occur on all college campuses. Academics at Roanoke are no joke! Don't expect to come here and not do any work... the low retention rate is because of freshman who either drop out mid-year or they don't come back for sophomore year. But don't let that scare you-- if you find something that you love to do, that studying and work all ties together and the payoff is amazing!
Read 732 Reviews
grade B+
Overall Niche Grade
75% Acceptance Rate
$27,180 Net Price
1050-1260 SAT Range
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ECPI University - Richmond West, VA
RICHMOND, VA
Rating 4.38 out of 5 8 reviews
Freshman: So far ecpi had played a huge role in my life, I’ve been learning things about finance and becoming a successful student inside and outside of the classroom.
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2021 Best College Food in America

Best Programs

Students

Social Scene

Campus

Athletics

University of California - Los Angeles

Virginia Tech

University of Massachusetts - Amherst

St. Norbert College

California Baptist University

St. John Fisher College

University of San Diego

James Madison University

Washington University in St. Louis

Bates College

Hendrix College

University of Georgia

Cornell University

Ashland University

University of Oregon

Saint Anselm College

Muhlenberg College

Liberty University

St. Olaf College

Bowdoin College

Wesleyan University

Kennesaw State University

The Culinary Institute of America

University of Dayton

Florida International University

South University - Richmond

Roanoke College

ECPI University - Richmond West, VA