Siena College

Founded by Franciscan friars in 1937, Siena reflects its Catholic heritage. There are two dozen friars currently in residence, including 13 who minister at the college. (Before finals, the college chaplain blesses students so they have spiritual guidance throughout their tests.) Located in suburban Loudonville, N.Y., this Roman Catholic liberal arts college has an above-average graduation rate. Sports are big at this Division I college, especially men's basketball -- the Siena Saints frequently make the NCAA tournament. The team plays at the 8,400-seat Times Union Center, which also draws performances from big-name acts like Ariana Grande, Kevin Hart, and Shania Twain. Siena recently unveiled the Grotto, an outdoor spiritual space modeled after a shrine in Lourdes, France. The nearby state capital of Albany offers students an array of internship opportunities in addition to the cultural amenities of a midsized city. Plus, there is plenty to do on campus; the Siena Night Life initiative plans events every weekend in the student union, from trivia nights to casino games to live entertainment. There are also more than 120 clubs and organizations to join, like the Irish Dance club, Psychology Club, Rugby Club, or Read for the Stars, a community service organization that gives students the opportunity to mentor inner city children.