Each year The Princeton Review publishes a top 100 list of “Best Value Colleges.” For the second year in a row, UNCW has secured itself a spot on the list, which comprises 50 public and 50 private institutions, based on information surveyed from over 650 colleges and universities throughout the country. Schools were ranked on the basis of criteria from three main categories: academics, costs of attendance and financial aid.

“UNCW’s commitment to our students, their families and the citizens of North Carolina is to provide the highest quality educational experience at the lowest possible cost,” said Chancellor DePaolo of UNCW’s inclusion on the prestigious list. “That is even more critical in today’s economic environment, when many students and families have serious concerns about paying for college. The university is honored to be included as one of Princeton Review’s ‘Best Value’ colleges,” she added.

Student Government Association Treasurer Jan Lucas said, “Best value doesn’t mean the cheapest. It means getting the most out of what you’re paying for.” A native of New York, Lucas pays out-of-state tuition and still finds that he gets a great deal. “Coming to UNCW out-of-state, I am paying within $5,000 of what I would be paying for in-state tuition in New York,” he points out. “And not a day goes by here that I’m not happy. No matter where I visit, for how long, I’m always excited to get back to Wilmington.”

Student Megan McGugan also noted the emphasis UNCW puts on student input and opinion. “We are able to have a voice and changes are being made based on what we want,” she said. “UNCW give students a chance to express their thoughts and ideas, and then actually follows through with them.”

In a time where everyone wants to find the best deal and make their dollar go the farthest, UNCW is fighting hard to remain economical without compromising the quality of the education they offer. According to The Princeton Review, it’s working.