The classes here can be quite demanding; however, in the end, the hard work is worth it. While for the majority of students, long hours of studying are probably necessary to succeed, Washington University assists with the learning process by offering a plethora of academic resources, such as free tutoring and academic mentoring for (almost) any class. In addition, many of the professors have a lot of knowledge to impart, as they are true experts in their field. Of course, some are better than others, but for the most part, the instructors are very knowledgeable about their subjects, and many of them show great enthusiasm for what they do, which I find makes it much easier and more exciting to learn. There is a large array of courses to take, and students, especially freshmen, are encouraged to explore their interests. In fact, at least for Arts and Sciences students, there is only one general education requirement—Writing I—so they have great freedom to discover what their passion is and can continue to learn more about that passion.
Do you enjoy the experience at your school?
While the classes are certainly challenging, I love being at Washington University. The community is very close-knit; despite being located in the city of St. Louis, the main campus is a beautiful, park-like oasis, set off from the surrounding metropolis in what is commonly referred to as the “WashU Bubble.” Freshmen and some upperclassmen live together on a forty-acre plot of land known as the “South 40,” which is adjacent to the main campus and consists of residential buildings as well as a variety of places to eat, study, relax, and socialize. All facilities that I have seen, both on the South 40 and on the main campus, are very nice and are well maintained. Moreover, the people are generally accepting and friendly, and even though the academics are competitive, students usually try to help each other succeed rather than to cut each other down.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
Washington University has a reputation for being quite expensive, and it is. The good news, however, is that Student Financial Services is exceptionally helpful, so do not let fiscal concerns keep you from applying. Washington University works very hard to ensure that those who are accepted can attend if they so choose—regardless of their family’s financial situation. If your family is very wealthy, chances are they will have to pay a total of over $200,000, but you will receive a high-quality education from a well-respected university. On the other hand, if you come from a lower or middle-class family, you can receive that same education for a price that is more suited to your family’s circumstances. Granted, you may need to work a part-time job as part of the Federal Work-Study Program, or you may need to look for a few outside scholarships, but overall, Washington University does a good job of making a great education a reality for just about anyone who is accepted.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
The admissions process is competitive but by no means impossible. Obviously, things like a strong academic record, high standardized test scores, and an exceptional application essay are important; unfortunately, as with many selective universities, they do not necessarily guarantee acceptance. One way to stand out in a talented group of applicants is to demonstrate an ability to succeed in a college setting. With opportunities like the High School Summer Scholars Program, Washington University offers potential students the chance not only to show that they can handle Washington University coursework but also to earn college credit. While getting involved in the college scene during high school may not assure acceptance, I think it certainly gives students a competitive advantage.
Another important point is that Washington University has something of a reputation for placing many applicants on a waitlist. From what I know about it, the number of students—if any—who are accepted off the waitlist varies from year to year, so there is no way to really tell what your chances are. If you are offered the chance to be placed on the waitlist and are still interested in attending Washington University, accept the waitlist position, but make sure you have a backup plan.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
Washington University is great for students who are seriously committed to academics and willing to work hard to succeed. The atmosphere is generally laidback and there are many opportunities for fun, but “good grades” will not be handed out free. A strong work ethic and a desire to learn are essential. Additionally, the university consists of a very diverse community, so potential students should be willing to have an open mind about things they may have never been exposed to before.
The classes here can be quite demanding; however, in the end, the hard work is worth it. While for the majority of students, long hours of studying are probably necessary to succeed, Washington University assists with the learning process by offering a plethora of academic resources, such as free tutoring and academic mentoring for (almost) any class. In addition, many of the professors have a lot of knowledge to impart, as they are true experts in their field. Of course, some are better than others, but for the most part, the instructors are very knowledgeable about their subjects, and many of them show great enthusiasm for what they do, which I find makes it much easier and more exciting to learn. There is a large array of courses to take, and students, especially freshmen, are encouraged to explore their interests. In fact, at least for Arts and Sciences students, there is only one general education requirement—Writing I—so they have great freedom to discover what their passion is and can continue to learn more about that passion.
While the classes are certainly challenging, I love being at Washington University. The community is very close-knit; despite being located in the city of St. Louis, the main campus is a beautiful, park-like oasis, set off from the surrounding metropolis in what is commonly referred to as the “WashU Bubble.” Freshmen and some upperclassmen live together on a forty-acre plot of land known as the “South 40,” which is adjacent to the main campus and consists of residential buildings as well as a variety of places to eat, study, relax, and socialize. All facilities that I have seen, both on the South 40 and on the main campus, are very nice and are well maintained. Moreover, the people are generally accepting and friendly, and even though the academics are competitive, students usually try to help each other succeed rather than to cut each other down.
Washington University has a reputation for being quite expensive, and it is. The good news, however, is that Student Financial Services is exceptionally helpful, so do not let fiscal concerns keep you from applying. Washington University works very hard to ensure that those who are accepted can attend if they so choose—regardless of their family’s financial situation. If your family is very wealthy, chances are they will have to pay a total of over $200,000, but you will receive a high-quality education from a well-respected university. On the other hand, if you come from a lower or middle-class family, you can receive that same education for a price that is more suited to your family’s circumstances. Granted, you may need to work a part-time job as part of the Federal Work-Study Program, or you may need to look for a few outside scholarships, but overall, Washington University does a good job of making a great education a reality for just about anyone who is accepted.
The admissions process is competitive but by no means impossible. Obviously, things like a strong academic record, high standardized test scores, and an exceptional application essay are important; unfortunately, as with many selective universities, they do not necessarily guarantee acceptance. One way to stand out in a talented group of applicants is to demonstrate an ability to succeed in a college setting. With opportunities like the High School Summer Scholars Program, Washington University offers potential students the chance not only to show that they can handle Washington University coursework but also to earn college credit. While getting involved in the college scene during high school may not assure acceptance, I think it certainly gives students a competitive advantage. Another important point is that Washington University has something of a reputation for placing many applicants on a waitlist. From what I know about it, the number of students—if any—who are accepted off the waitlist varies from year to year, so there is no way to really tell what your chances are. If you are offered the chance to be placed on the waitlist and are still interested in attending Washington University, accept the waitlist position, but make sure you have a backup plan.
Washington University is great for students who are seriously committed to academics and willing to work hard to succeed. The atmosphere is generally laidback and there are many opportunities for fun, but “good grades” will not be handed out free. A strong work ethic and a desire to learn are essential. Additionally, the university consists of a very diverse community, so potential students should be willing to have an open mind about things they may have never been exposed to before.