Willamette University Top Questions

The students at Willamette vary greatly. They come from many different socioeconomic backgrounds (thanks to the great financial aid available). Students tend to separate into groups of people with similar interests and lifestyles, as they would anywhere, but there are no malicious feelings between any of the groups. In general, students are very accepting of each other regardless of who they hang out with or what they wear (some students wear sweatpants every day, others dress up for class). I don't think there is any single type of person that wouldn't find a place in which they were comfortable on campus. I think if there were one common characteristic of most (but not all) students, it would be a tendency toward the Liberal-mindedness characteristic of the region.

It is common at Willamette to find students who are not only heavily engaged in their majors but who are also involved in extra-curricular activities outside the classroom. Most, if not all, clubs/activities on campus are run by students. From acapella nights in the auditorium, to themed dances, to organized demonstrations, to intramural sports, to the infamous Wulapalooza spring concert festival, Willamette students prove their creativity and involvement in extra-curriculars across campus. Apart from clubs and other more recreational activities, students work hard on various internships or personal research grants, or choose to study abroad for a semester or a whole year. It goes without saying that the Willamette campus is constantly buzzing with ambitious students who love being involved in academics and beyond.

One of the main reasons I chose to attend Willamette was because the students went so far out of their way for me when I was a prospective student. I figured that because Willamette students were so open and generous with prospective students, the students would be even more willing to help their classmates. From my experiences that is very true and I am consistently impressed with the levels of passion and leadership that Willamette students carry into every situation they encounter.

One of the main reasons I chose to attend Willamette was because the students went so far out of their way for me when I was a prospective student. I figured that because Willamette students were so open and generous with prospective students, the students would be even more willing to help their classmates. From my experiences that is very true and I am consistently impressed with the levels of passion and leadership that Willamette students carry into every situation they encounter.

Casual. People are themselves. I think that's the beauty of being at WU. I remember when I visited campus as a prospective student. My mom said, "Pretty soon that'll be you, rolling out of bed and throwing on a sweatshirt before you go to class." It's true--just stepping onto campus makes you want to throw on a WU sweatshirt and read a book by the Mill Stream. No more of that petty high school drama - people are interested in each other, regardless of their background. I would say that students here are conscious of the various diversified groups on campus, though I think it's easy to forget that not all diversity is so clear-cut. This awareness is growing though, and I think that's a good thing.

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When I was looking at schools, Willamette stood out to me more than any other school because of how welcomed I felt. Numerous students asked me if they could answer any questions, show me where to go, etc. I still feel that sense of community as a student here. You are not just another student here, but a contributing member that is valued. Though we are not the most diverse campus, there are many clubs geared toward various groups of people. We have ANGLES, a gay-straight alliance, the Asian Student Association, Alianza, the Jewish Student Union, and many more. Willamette students are very open to diversity and I think that just about anyone will feel welcome here.

Most of the students comprised at Willamette are middle-class, Caucasian (white) students, therefore there is an undertone of majority/minority issues present on campus. There is an Office of Multicultural Affairs, that present social justice discussions, guest speakers, and multicultural events such as the annual lu`au hosted by the student of the Hawai`i Club.

Willamette students are open-minded, multifaceted and laid back. One activity or organization rarely defines a student. We have a diverse range of interests and apply ourselves in many different aspects of student life.

Students' interests are very diverse. This makes for an active, interesting campus. There seems to be a club or activity for everyone. I really appreciate the open-minded and laid back atmosphere. Students are able to pursue their unique interests and be their most true selves comfortably at Willamette.