Gonzaga University (GU)

Holistic learning is a highlight of Gonzaga University: the school “focuses on preparing students spiritually, intellectually, physically, and emotionally” for their futures. For instance, the school “encourages students to take classes outside of their majors in order to broaden their learning experiences.” It also takes an interdisciplinary approach to the core curriculum, with one student noting that “an advanced biochemistry course...also aimed to apply concepts learned in Communications 100.” Together, these approaches help to “develop people as a whole, so they have the skills to live a full and impactful life.” Gonzaga also fosters student growth through Community Engaged Learning courses that partner “with local organizations or university clubs to support the Spokane community through a variety of types of service.” Even dorm life connects to academics through Living-Learning Communities (LLCs), where first- and second-year students can “live in a community surrounding a centralized topic,” such as health professions, outdoor pursuits, or creative expression. This emphasis on personal growth, connection, and community carries over into the close, supportive relationships students build with professors. “I have professors from two years ago who still remember me by name and ask questions about my life when I see them on campus,” shares one student, adding, “Our professors are unafraid to discuss challenging perspectives and implore us to consider numerous sides to an argument, which has really helped me grow as a critical thinker.” As one undergrad sums it up: “Every part of this school helps shape students into individuals for and with others, who are ready to use their intellect and skills to do good in the world.”

“Zags help Zags” is more than a campus motto: “It’s the culture here. Community is a core value of all Gonzaga students, and it shows.” Gonzaga’s campus culture is such that “you will have the door held open for you, you will have people ask how you are doing, and you will be made to feel that you belong.” One student adds, “I think Gonzaga does a great job fostering a community of learners and leaders that really support and care for each other. It’s impossible to walk around campus and not see someone you’ve connected with through student clubs, classes, volunteering, or on-campus housing.” These “involved, passionate, and welcoming” Zags are also “driven and ambitious,” and love feeling “positively motivated” by their peers. As one undergrad explains, “I feel most proud to be a Zag when I’m supporting my peers at sports, performing arts, or academic presentation events, and I have a lot of confidence knowing my friends always have my back here too.”

Gonzaga’s “guiding theme” is cura personalis, or caring for the whole person, mind and body. For many Zags, this means balancing “academics with involvement in clubs, service, and social events.” Gonzaga “has strong service and community engagement opportunities that I have loved and…continued involvement with all four years here. Our student clubs are also easy to get involved in and have helped me build friendships and feel connected to the campus community.” One thing students don’t seem to have trouble fitting into their busy schedule is intramural sports (which are “a HUGE thing”): “I love love love the basketball games here! Both men’s and women’s!” Beyond campus, GU Outdoors “encourages people to get outside” and stay active, offering opportunities for snowboarding as well as “great hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.” Overall, students describe Gonzaga as a place where “there’s a shared sense of energy and belonging that makes daily life feel both purposeful and connected.”