Willamette University (WU)

Traditional academics are strong at Willamette, but perhaps what stands out most is that “learning opportunities outside of the classroom are endless.” Located right across the street from the Oregon state capitol, there are countless “leadership opportunities and student research opportunities.” Professors here are “very willing to help students find internships, jobs and research opportunities.” In the classroom, those same professors are “incredible resources” who “are all very dedicated to their classes rather than research or outside obligations,” and who provide classes that “are interesting and varied.” You will be challenged, but only with the goal of helping you succeed. As one student notes, “I have felt intellectually pushed outside my comfort zone while still being incredibly supported in all of my academic classes.” Another noticed that “my professors are not looking to fail me or weed me out of classes; they just believe in me, and want me to excel.” These educators “make their material relevant” and tend to be “passionate about their subject.” Classes are “often discussion-based, not lecture-based, so students are not just regurgitating information they hear from a professor, but working with the material and exploring their own thoughts and ideas.” Overall, the environment here “encourages growth and development, both inside and outside the classroom,” which one student says is “unique to a small Liberal Arts school.”

Given the nature of life on campus, it should come as no surprise that “a typical Willamette student is excited to learn, to explore, and be an active participant within the community.” Students here are “interested in helping others through academic tutoring and community service,” a group who tend to be “accepting, politically involved, and civic minded.” Individuals vary—“students embrace the idea of being unique and proud of it”—but almost all are “academically driven, balanced with social endeavors, and eager to mix in with other students.” Most are “from the West Coast,” “friendly and open,” and, of course, very busy. “Almost all students are involved in multiple things.” This common need to be doing things ensures students “share a friendliness that's evident the moment you step onto campus.” As one student notes, to get the most out of Willamette, “you have to be willing to challenge yourselves and others, and be accepting of the community you are a part of.”

“Lots of intellectual discussions,” a thriving Greek life, pursuing “social justice” and “social causes,” and just plain being busy are the core of life at Willamette. On this campus, “there is a lot of emphasis on how to make an impact on the community and the school as a whole.” Indeed, “students are involved in a variety of organizations on campus and off that concern these types of issues,” which is not difficult given the school’s close proximity to Oregon’s seat of government. Students here “often think about politics, civic duties, and volunteering,” filling their time with “philanthropic events, house parties, or outdoor trips.” This isn’t limited to a minority of students, either. “Very few students only attend class; most have three or more activities they are involved in.” Less intellectual pursuits are within range, though may be something of a drive. Portland and all its quirky culture is a close forty minutes away, while the Oregon coast and Mount Hood are about two hours away. But students don’t need to venture far. “There is so much to see and do in the Willamette Valley that students have opportunities to do pretty much anything.”