Pacific University has an extremely extensive course catalog for such a small school. They also cover a large amount of subjects, so students who go to college undecided have the ability to sample courses from many areas before deciding on a major. Plus, the wide variety means that once you have decided on a major, there is a high chance that Pacific will offer it - and if it doesn't, Pacific's design your own major program will allow you to create it yourself. This, as well as the fact the Pacific offers a liberal arts education, or a well-rounded education, means that simply in fulfilling the core requirements, all students will have the ability to survey different areas of study. Lastly, the student to teacher ratio is very low, so you will get to know almost all of your professors on a first name basis.
Do you enjoy the experience at your school?
The Pacific University Forest Grove campus is beautiful, especially in the fall - one of the main reasons I chose to come to Pacific. Also, the location between the coast and Portland is great, especially with the public transportation between Forest Grove and Portland being so easy. One of the best parts about Pacific, though, is how student oriented it is. For example, upon arriving at Pacific on move-in day, I was approached by the student ambassadors, who carried all of my luggage and furniture to my dorm room for me - and there was a lot of it. On top of that, when checking me in, when the admission staff asked for my last name, they knew my first name without even checking the list! At Pacific, you are more than a number, you are a person, and they treat you as such.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
Pacific is extremely expensive, in fact, the most expensive school I looked at. However, they offer a great scholarship program, which takes into account both need and academics - a friend of mine who didn't do so great in high school, but is unable to pay for college without loans, has more than half of her tuition covered in loans and scholarships - in another example, I know someone who got great grades and SAT scores, and is getting over $16,000/year in scholarships! The sticker price may be high, but chances are, you won't have to pay all of it. On top of that, I do feel that the school is a great value - so much is included in tuition, you could easily go the whole year without spending money on extras at the market or restaurants, and the small classes really maximize how much you get to learn for your money.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
One unavoidable thing at Pacific is their dedication to the environment. There are many programs on campus that support sustainable living, and I guarantee you won't get through college without hearing about it. Also, one misconception is that at a small school such as Pacific, there wouldn't be much to do - however, between parties, festivals, clubs, and events around the Grove, there really isn't a day where you can't find something to do. Pacific hosts the annual Luau, as well as the Mensch Festival (this year including a free Blue Scholars Concert) and many other events. Clubs and organizations hold dances, lectures, movie nights, trips to Portland, and lots of other things. A friend of mine is even hosting a Cuddle Party for a school project this week - there's plenty to do here.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
Personally, I can't see anyone who wouldn't like this school, and I know many different types who attend Pacific and love it. However, I would imagine that it would be best for... - Environmentally friendly students - Students who are passionate about learning - Students who enjoy the outdoors (there are many outdoor activities to participate in) - Students who aren't afraid of working hard - Students who enjoy being involved in their community
I wouldn't, however, recommend Pacific to anyone looking for a large school, a school where they can expect to go unnoticed, or a school where they can get by just doing the minimal amount of work... classes here are challenging!
Pacific University has an extremely extensive course catalog for such a small school. They also cover a large amount of subjects, so students who go to college undecided have the ability to sample courses from many areas before deciding on a major. Plus, the wide variety means that once you have decided on a major, there is a high chance that Pacific will offer it - and if it doesn't, Pacific's design your own major program will allow you to create it yourself. This, as well as the fact the Pacific offers a liberal arts education, or a well-rounded education, means that simply in fulfilling the core requirements, all students will have the ability to survey different areas of study. Lastly, the student to teacher ratio is very low, so you will get to know almost all of your professors on a first name basis.
The Pacific University Forest Grove campus is beautiful, especially in the fall - one of the main reasons I chose to come to Pacific. Also, the location between the coast and Portland is great, especially with the public transportation between Forest Grove and Portland being so easy. One of the best parts about Pacific, though, is how student oriented it is. For example, upon arriving at Pacific on move-in day, I was approached by the student ambassadors, who carried all of my luggage and furniture to my dorm room for me - and there was a lot of it. On top of that, when checking me in, when the admission staff asked for my last name, they knew my first name without even checking the list! At Pacific, you are more than a number, you are a person, and they treat you as such.
Pacific is extremely expensive, in fact, the most expensive school I looked at. However, they offer a great scholarship program, which takes into account both need and academics - a friend of mine who didn't do so great in high school, but is unable to pay for college without loans, has more than half of her tuition covered in loans and scholarships - in another example, I know someone who got great grades and SAT scores, and is getting over $16,000/year in scholarships! The sticker price may be high, but chances are, you won't have to pay all of it. On top of that, I do feel that the school is a great value - so much is included in tuition, you could easily go the whole year without spending money on extras at the market or restaurants, and the small classes really maximize how much you get to learn for your money.
One unavoidable thing at Pacific is their dedication to the environment. There are many programs on campus that support sustainable living, and I guarantee you won't get through college without hearing about it. Also, one misconception is that at a small school such as Pacific, there wouldn't be much to do - however, between parties, festivals, clubs, and events around the Grove, there really isn't a day where you can't find something to do. Pacific hosts the annual Luau, as well as the Mensch Festival (this year including a free Blue Scholars Concert) and many other events. Clubs and organizations hold dances, lectures, movie nights, trips to Portland, and lots of other things. A friend of mine is even hosting a Cuddle Party for a school project this week - there's plenty to do here.
Personally, I can't see anyone who wouldn't like this school, and I know many different types who attend Pacific and love it. However, I would imagine that it would be best for... - Environmentally friendly students - Students who are passionate about learning - Students who enjoy the outdoors (there are many outdoor activities to participate in) - Students who aren't afraid of working hard - Students who enjoy being involved in their community I wouldn't, however, recommend Pacific to anyone looking for a large school, a school where they can expect to go unnoticed, or a school where they can get by just doing the minimal amount of work... classes here are challenging!