Willamette University

Willamette University

Salem, OR, USA
Private
4 Year

Jacqueline's Review

Review of Willamette University

from Los Gatos, CA

Describe your college 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.

Do you have any 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.

Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?

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.

Describe the dorm life at your college.

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.

Describe the food and dining at your college.

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’s there to do for fun at your college?

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.

Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?

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.

Which types of students will excel at your college?

Dedicated to education, hard-working, interested in having a well-rounded education, involved in extracurricular activities

Are you involved in any clubs or 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.