Despite all of the 2 a.m. Pokey Stix and Panda Express lunches in the HUB throughout the week, Penn State came in at No. 10 on Greatist’s list of the 25 healthiest colleges in America.

Each college ranked was evaluated on its healthy eating practices, fitness opportunities, and medical and mental health services and programs. Our extensive salad bars, smaller portions, readily available nutritional information, and educational programming that helps students make healthier food choices are among the commodities that caught Greatist’s attention.

Jill Garrigan, Penn State’s Fitness Coordinator, said in a press release that “recent expansions to Recreation Hall and the Intramural Building are among some of the changes to campus that allow more of the Penn State community — faculty, staff and students — to improve their own health and wellness.”

The healthy eating habits, fitness, and education weren’t the only things that helped us earn the No. 10 ranking. Penn State’s health services, from medical care to counseling services, played a role. Penn State’s physicians help with stress management, sexual and relationship violence, group therapy, and crisis intervention.

Whether it’s the THON 5K or The Color Run, Greatlist loves that Penn State offers a race, run, or walk almost every weekend. They also mentioned our all-famous “De-Stress Zone” that’s generally running during Finals Week and features biofeedback programs and soundtracks to help students rest and relax.

There’s more, too! Aside from the medical care and counseling, right on campus are offices provided for health promotion and wellness. Those who run the offices have information on sexual health, smoking cessation, drugs and alcohol, fitness and nutrition, and eating disorders.

“Accessibility is our main focus,” said Garrigan. “We want to eliminate the reasons not to exercise and create spaces where people with all different backgrounds can enjoy recreation.”