University of the Pacific

Educational diversity and strong academic programs bring many students to the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. The school “provides an array of opportunities to suit anyone.” “The accelerated programs in dentistry, law, and pharmacy” are a big hit, as well as the “amazing co-op program for engineers” and the “prestigious speech and language pathology program.” The “four year guarantee” for some majors and the time and money saved by finishing earlier than other schools’ programs is the deciding factor for many. “The Elementary Education program appealed to me because I would get my teaching credential and degree in four years, rather than five or six.” Another reason people choose Pacific is the appeal of “very small” and “intimate” classes. One student says this allows for “the proper and necessary attention that I need in order to succeed academically.” “Professors know you by name, and they are very involved and helpful.” This “emphasis on close relationships between staff and students” shows that Pacific is “a school that truly cares about each student’s education.” A good deal of students describe professors as “extremely challenging,” but also “extremely motivating.” “They encourage me and push me to put 110 percent effort in everything inside and outside the classroom.” Another student confirms that each class is “manageable but requires effort.” If needed, assistance is readily available. “There is always someone around who can help you and plenty of tutors.” “There are so many resources in place to help students succeed, that it’s practically impossible not to do well.” Although the cost may seem high, several students did benefit from “a lot of financial aid.”

Some students agree that there is “a wide gap between the ‘serious’ students and the ‘not serious’ students.” This may explain the seemingly contradictory observations that “people seem to party a lot” and that there is “not much time for anything but studying.” Student comments suggest that the typical student “is involved in multiple organizations on campus, gets good grades, finds time for fun on the weekends, [and] stays late in the library even if they are just socializing.” Pacific’s size lends itself to a “friendly atmosphere.” The “small campus contributes to a small town ambiance where you know everyone.” One downside to this is that “student life becomes very cliquey, almost like high school.”

Students love the “gorgeous and well-maintained” campus, but the surrounding city of Stockton does not get rave reviews. One student describes the University of the Pacific as a “nice school in an unlikely neighborhood.” One student does not recommend “walking around certain parts of campus late at night,” but adds, “We have great campus police and a STRIPE program that can transport you wherever you want on golf carts if you call them and let you know where you are.” Students say the campus is fairly self-contained, with “a movie theater that shows free movies on the weekends for all Pacific students. We also have an on-campus grocery store and a cafeteria that is open until 1:00 A.m.” Since there is no strong pull to leave campus, “students tend to resort to joining fraternities to give them something to do. It isn’t always partying though. Pacific is not usually considered a party school since the campus “drug and alcohol policy is extremely strict.” A lot of frats on campus are professional ones (i.e. pharmacy fraternities) that are committed to giving back to the community and hosting health fairs.” Students say, “Student life varies widely by major.” “Some majors are a lot more difficult than others, so not everyone studies.” Keeping active and fit are also popular. “Our gym is very nice and hygienic. We also have a swimming pool with open hours and several soccer fields for recreational use.”