Willamette University
Salem, OR, USA

Reviews

Willamette University

Zachery from California

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
Each day at Willamette I have anywhere from two to five hours of class, at least this semester, and for each class I come out learning something new. Of course some days I learn more than others, but everyday I go to class I know that I will learn a new concept or further my mastery over another.
Am enjoying being here
The community at Willamette is simply amazing. I find enjoyable people everywhere I go. Friends can be found in all sorts of places, from our over 100 clubs, classes, or simply hanging out at the Bistro or in a lounge at one of the dorms.
Bang for the buck
Although the main drawback for coming to Willamette for me personally was money, I feel that every cent spent here is well worth it. There has not been a single moment at my time here that I have thought that I had made the wrong decision, and that, combined with my education and experiences, makes Willamette truly worthwhile.
Tips for prospective students
The best advice I can give to a student is to come check out the campus. Willamette has many visiting days, where there will be many prospective students as well as the experience to come at any time of the year and spend the day with a student and experience life here at Willamette.
Great for these types of students
Willamette is the perfect school for all students. Willamette has wonderful programs of study where someone can major in almost anything they wanted, as well as great resources from free printing, to free tutoring. If you are an academic student, the classes are challenging and rewarding, and if you struggle in school, Willamette has many resources for you to take advantage of. If you like being sociable, there is a cafe on campus as well as hundreds of clubs and activities, and there are always fun events hosted by student organizations. Overall it is a great school for any student who is willing to try.

Crystal from Hermiston, OR

researching this school
Categories Comments
Will learn a lot
I went on a college visit a few days ago to this university as well as 3 others in Oregon. Out of all 4, I found WU to have the best learning environment. Small classes, personal relationships with teachers that genuinely want to help you, and serious students. Many different FREE tutoring and one-on-one help with professors. Academics are definitely important without having to be a nerd. There are students of all sorts, but the vast majority are well rounded and heavily involved.
Will enjoy being here
There are over 100 different clubs and activities to be a part of. The drinking/party scene isn't very strong but it's obvious it's unnecessary. The social atmosphere is of independent, unique students that are friendly and accepting. Same goes for the professors. Sure, you have to get used to the drizzling rain but remember the summers are beautiful! Year round, the campus is gorgeous.
Bang for the buck
Yes, it is a private school. Yes, that means it's going to be more expensive. But this school is so worth it. They offer a lot of financial aid. This is not an impossible school, you just have to prove you deserve to be there.
Tips for prospective students
They have denied 4.0 students that are not involved in extra curricular activities but have accepted 3.8 students who volunteer regularly, show leadership, take rigorous AP classes, etc etc. They rather take a student that shows involvement and has something to offer to the school and community instead of someone that doesn't do anything with their time outside of school. So get busy! Be a part of something! Sports, jobs, volunteer, etc. Anything is better than nothing in this schools case.

Meryl from Sacramento, CA

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
I knew that the Willamette Professors were going to be helpful and probably more so than a bigger school but I never expected such dedicated people to the education of every student. Even in classes I think I do not care for at first, I come out realizing I have learned so much and not just text book memorization. I feel able to converse on many topics and apply class subject matter to everyday life.
Am enjoying being here
Willamette was hands down the most comfortable school I visited. I would say that all the smiles I see walking around campus is evidence that others feel the same way. This is a school where there is something for everyone and if there is something a student wanted to try for the first time or get back into after a few years, Willamette will offer the opportunity. It is like a fairytale: go after your dreams and you will come across resources to assist you.
Bang for the buck
Willamette is definitely an expensive school as far as tuition but they are very good about giving scholarships for academics and financial need. The education and personal time and attention I am receiving at Willamette is worth a lot more than the education at huge schools.
Tips for prospective students
The most important part of choosing a school is actually visiting the campus. Walk around, sit in on a class or two, and maybe even stay over night. Being there gives you a feel for whether or not you are comfortable there. Willamette has many visiting opportunities and offers over night stays for prospective students where you can stay over night with current students in their dorm room.
Great for these types of students
As I said before, everyone finds something to do at Willamette. Whether you are an athlete, a dancer, an artist or a musician, there will be numerous opportunities for excellence and Willamette gives everyone a chance.

Julia from Kaneohe, HI

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
Willamette University is a great liberal arts school located in Salem, Oregon. It's small student body provides for personal student to teacher relationships and creates a welcoming tight-knit community. It provides students with unlimited resources to assist students on their road to success.
Tips for prospective students
Don't be afraid to consult older students on what classes to take. Everyone is friendly so don't hesitate to ask. Always go in for help and see your professors, do not wait until the last minute. Make use of all the resources that Willamette has to offer they are all great and are of very much help.
Academic Rigor
It's definitely an academically rigorous school but don't let that scare you away. Once again there are a lot of resources to help you do well and teachers are willing to help! You will be doing a lot of work but it is all doable.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is great, the residence life department does a great job of hiring skillful community mentors that organize hall activities and events. If you have any concerns they are very approachable and willing to help.
Food and Dining
Breakfast and Lunch are very good and there are always a lot of great choices. Dinner is all you can eat and although it may not be great every night for the most part it is fairly decent and there is almost always pizza as a back up.
What to do for fun
There are a lot of fun places to hang out on campus such as by the Mill Stream and the Bistro ( on campus coffee shop run by students). Willamette's campus is only a few minutes away from downtown where there are a lot of great places to eat and shop. The mall is also nearby and is a nice place to hang out as well. There is a movie theater not too far away. In addition to that there are two great parks, Bush park (5 min walk) and River Front park (15 min walk). The activities are endless, you won't get bored.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The Mill stream is a great place where students tend to hang out or do homework especially when the weather is nice out. During spring preview a number of students get together and run through the school which is a bit awkward but nonetheless entertaining. Freshman take part of matriculation which is a great ceremony that is unforgettable.
Great for these types of students
If you are fun-loving, adventurous, and a bit strange in your own way then Willamette is the place for you!
Clubs and Activities
Willamette has a great intramural program with lots of different sports throughout the year such as volleyball, indoor soccer, basketball, and flag football, etc.
There are also a number of varsity sports teams.
Greek Life
There are three sororities on campus: Alpha Chi Omega, Pi Beta Phi, and Delta Gamma. In addition there is one fraternity on campus: Sigma Chi. All of the sororities prohibit the consumption of alcohol.
Campus Safety
Campus safety is constantly patrolling the area as well as Willamette watch ( students working for campus safety). They are always available, 24 hours, and are promptly show up if a student is in need of assistance.

Grace from Salem, OR

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
The accepting community and engaging academic environment makes for well-rounded students. There are a lot of resources on campus to help students succeed academically. The campus is beautiful and adds a level of content and amusement to studying and everyday life.
Tips for prospective students
Visiting the campus will give you the best understanding of the beautiful environment and friendly nature of students. Get in touch with current students and ask them questions- that's what helped me!
Academic Rigor
Willamette is not known for laid-back education. Students are expected to work hard in their academics, but are given a lot of flexibility to personalize their education. At Willamette, full time students are expected to engage in a 40 hour education work week which encompasses classes and studies.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is very comfortable and accepting. There are a wide array of housing options for gender non-conforming students, as well as an all women's hall, substance-free halls, and eco-conscious living. Some dorms are more notorious for late night lives than others, but students will quickly find where they are comfortable.
Food and Dining
There are a few dining options on campus which adds nice variety. Goudy is where most students eat because it offers three meals a day on and off meal points. The food is great at first, but can be very hit-or-miss and gets repetitive after a while. Luckily the off-campus food scene is very lively and diverse.Cat Cavern is open for lunch and can be a nice change. The Bistro has the best food and environment, but does not accept meal points. It is very artsy and open late, so it is a popular study location. Their vegan chai cookies are amazing.
What to do for fun
It isn't hard to have fun at Willamette if one stays engaged. There are a variety of sports and clubs on campus and proximity to the Capitol makes for interesting access to museums and other culturally prevalent establishments. There is a lively food scene and a few great coffee shops near campus.
Bang for the buck
In all honesty, the school is expensive. However, the school provides a lot of academic merit scholarships. I get $22,000 a year from the school in scholarships. If students stay on top of applying for external scholarships though, the school can be very affordable. I attend school for around $6,000 a semester after my scholarships (from school and external), grants, and federal loans are applied.
Great for these types of students
Students who are passionate about their education and want to make friends but don't want to have competitive education should go here. Everyone is fairly laid-back and friendly but also very dedicated to learning.
Clubs and Activities
There are so many clubs and activities going on constantly around campus. It never gets boring. There are clubs for almost every interest, ranging from the Rainbow Alliance to Knob Club (a club dedicated to doorknobs).
Greek Life
Greek life at Willamette plays a big part in hosting fun and stress-relieving events on campus. As someone who is not and will never be part of Greek Life I still appreciate the positive mark greek life makes.
Campus Safety
Campus safety is really well advertised and accessible. Students can even get free pepper spray after watching an informational video in the campus safety office. Campus is small and feels very safe. I have never felt in danger, but if I did I know I could ask anyone- even a stranger- to walk me home and they would be happy to do so.

Sagarika from Salem, OR

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
The student to professor ratio here is perfect. Everyone can get an equal amount out of the classes, and everyone can converse comfortably. The school is small enough that you will come to know a lot of people and will be able to learn along with your community.
Am enjoying being here
The people are great, if not a little nerdy. They're very endearing and I've made friends who I wouldn't trade for the world. There's always something to do, even if it IS in Salem.
Bang for the buck
It's a pricey school, and sometimes you can't get the classes you want and the food can be a little crummy. But the education is great, and there's usually a hefty financial aid package waiting for you.
Tips for prospective students
Rainboots, people. It's Oregon. And also, don't live in Kaneko Commons unless you really like hiking. Get on the administration's good side. Join a Jump Start Program. They get you a solid group of friends before the semester starts.
Great for these types of students
Studious, Like Intimate Settings. If you really like to get to know the people around you, then Willamette is the way to go.

Jacqueline from Los Gatos, CA

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
Students at Willamette are dedicated, passionate, and involved. The school fosters great student-professor relationships that result in a personalized education system. The campus community is vibrant and active, with lots of extracurricular activity options.
Tips for prospective students
If you're interested in a specific major/department, find some students or professors in that department to talk to about it. Every department has its own strengths and weaknesses.
Academic Rigor
Academics at Willamette are difficult but rewarding. You have to be willing to challenge yourself and be held accountable for your work. Although it can be intense, there are always professors and tutors who are willing to help you out if you're struggling.
Dorm Life
Each residence hall has its own unique atmosphere. Personally, I've had a great experience living in the dorms. Some of them have full kitchens and some don't, which may be an important factor in deciding where to live if you prefer to cook your own food. The CM's (Community Mentors) are all really helpful if you ever have questions or uncertainties.
Food and Dining
Students tend to complain about Goudy, our main cafeteria, but as far as cafeterias go, it's not that bad. There are a few other on-campus food options if you don't want to eat at Goudy all the time. My biggest complaint about Goudy is that it can be difficult to find healthy options that also taste good.
What to do for fun
There are some good hang out spots on campus - dorm common rooms, Montag, the Bistro, and, on sunny days, outside by the millstream. There are lots of events and shows that go on particularly on weekends that tend to be pretty fun.
Bang for the buck
Willamette has a fantastic financial aid program, so it's pretty easy to get a great scholarship. The caliber of education that Willamette students receive really makes it worth it. You have to work hard, but it's definitely rewarding.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Wulapalooza is a big music festival that happens every spring and it basically ends up being a campus-wide party. On the final preview day, a bunch of the seniors also do a naked run around campus. Every semester on the evening before finals, Goudy has a midnight breakfast that is also a blast. Also, be prepared to get thrown into the millstream by your friends on your birthday.
Great for these types of students
Dedicated to education, hard-working, interested in having a well-rounded education, involved in extracurricular activities
Clubs and Activities
Willamette has a huge variety. It's pretty easy to start a student club on campus, so they have clubs for everything from cupcakes to fire dancing.

Sophomore Bio Major

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
Willamette University is a great place to be challenged academically and discover who you are as a student. The students are not pretentious and all different social groups come together to hang out in class and on weekends. The faculty are helpful and supportive and truly want to see all students succeed.
Tips for prospective students
I would suggest freshmen students live on east side because it is the easiest way to make friends and have things to do on the weekends. I also recommend doing stepping out and intramurals, its a great way to get involved.
Academic Rigor
Classes are hard. You will have to write lots of essays and you will feel overwhelmed but professors are supportive and understanding and there is free tutoring for every subject.
Dorm Life
Dorm life improves when you are a sophomore and move to west side but its generally pretty quiet and a good way to meet friends.
Food and Dining
The dining halls may get old by the end of the semester but overall they do a good job at mixing it up and providing healthy options for students with all kinds of dietary restrictions.
What to do for fun
For fun I participate in outdoor program activities where we go hiking and camping. If Im not too busy on the weekends I will hang out with my friends and go to close off campus house parties or watch movies in the dorms.

Kassandra from Scotts Valley, CA

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
Willamette is a life changing school. I have made my closest friends here and I am so blessed to have been accepted as a transfer student.
Tips for prospective students
Apply to study abroad! Get involved on campus and make sure to balance your meal points well
Academic Rigor
academically challenging, but manegable if you balance your time well
What to do for fun
Go to portland!

Andres O. from Pleasanton, CA

a current student here
Categories Comments
Academic Rigor
the secret is upper division courses. as soon as you get past the 100 level courses all the courses are amazing. the professors are always excellent, but the pace will be a lot slower in lower division classes.
Am enjoying being here
The people are amazing, the school is perfect, couldn't be happier.
Bang for the buck
it cost the same for me to attend wu as it would for a uc, but the quality of the education, and resources available are much higher.
Tips for prospective students
if willamette is a school you are strongly interested in, then do the work up front. visit if you can, try to talk to a professor and take a tour, schedule an interview with an admission officer. even if you think you can't afford, try, things tend to work out for those who work hard.
Great for these types of students
independent, pro-active, ambitious, adventurous, motivated.