The University of Dayton is listed as one of 75 ‘new’ dream schools across the nation in a best-selling author’s new book, highlighting the University’s strengths in student belonging, mentorship, success and return on investment.

In Jeffrey Selingo’s upcoming book, Dream School: Finding the College That’s Right for You, the former higher education journalist and expert on university admissions redefines what makes a great college and aims to help students and families look beyond rankings by academics to find the right fit where the student can truly thrive. UD and other schools on the list were chosen for their accessibility, student engagement, financial sustainability and strong outcomes.

“The University of Dayton stood out for its transparent financial-aid model and hitting the sweet spots with a combination of small-college attention with big-school resources,” Selingo said.

Jason Reinoehl, vice president for strategic enrollment management, notes the University is expanding on these strengths with a new holistic advising model, and ensuring every student in every major completes at least one high-impact experiential learning opportunity before they graduate.

“We’ve seen faculty and staff support students with great success through their close relationships, and we’re aiming for all students to get that well-rounded support from holistic advisors and an associated “flight crew.” In addition to providing academic advising, advisors are connecting students to resources and opportunities on campus, and helping create mentorship opportunities that enable our students to become the best version of themselves. By expanding on our strengths and investing in our students with support and hands-on opportunities, they are learning to soar into their future careers as much as they are discovering who they are called to be.”

Selingo also factored in delivery of value to undergraduates, solid job prospects and earnings-to-net-price ratio and outcomes that “punch above the school’s weight” as data sources for determining the list of dream schools, which can be found in the book, releasing on Sept. 9.

“It’s a privilege to be on this list and be recognized for the University’s commitment to a Catholic, Marianist education that graduates students who lead and serve for the common good,” said UD president Eric F. Spina. “Mr. Selingo has identified one of our greatest assets — our size. The engaged experience of a mid-sized school with small class sizes, exemplified by the distinctive living and learning community in our student neighborhoods, as well as the research opportunities, industry connections, and athletics that rival bigger schools, the value of attending the University of Dayton speaks for itself.”