Washington College
Chestertown, MD, USA

Reviews

Washington College

Sara from Myersville, MD

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Attending Washington College has taught me more than I ever thought it could and not just in the classroom. First, the professors are always there to help. It is very easy to meet with them if you have a question, concern or just want to chat. They know you by first and last name and they do notice when you aren't in class. Many world renowned guests and speakers have come to Washington College and anyone can go to these events free of charge. Just in my first semester we had a professor from Oxford come to speak on religion in politics, John Harwood (a well acclaimed journalist), and the prime minister of Bulgaria came to deliver speeches to the students. The opportunities available on campus to further your education are endless!
Am enjoying being here
Washington College is located in Chestertown, Maryland which is a very small town located in a very rural area. However, I never once have felt that way on campus. There is always something going on. The town it's located in has a lot of historical significance and has many neat things to offer. It is located on the Chester river and there are four beaches within 20 minutes of the school. On the weekends many students often go to Annapolis or Dover which are only an hour away. Washington College provides a shuttle service to Philadelphia, Annapolis, BWI Airport and several other locations so having a car is not necessary. Honestly there is no reason to leave campus, everything you need is here.
Bang for the buck
Washington College certainly is not cheap, but I feel that if I had attended a larger, possibly cheaper school, I would not have all the personal interaction I have at Washington. My professors know me which is a great feeling. I can go up to one of my professors in the dining hall and ask him a question and I get an immediate answer. They always have office hours when you need to go talk to them or if you send them an email they reply in no time at all. Washington College may cost a little more than some private schools, but I wouldn't give up my close relationships with the faculty and staff for any other school.
Tips for prospective students
Visit the school. When you come to visit make sure you request to sit in on a class you might be interested in. Ask to meet with a professor in the field you are interested in. This may help you narrow down your decision. Also please ask anyone you see on campus if you have a question, any question about the school. We love to talk to prospective students after all we want you there. Also when you visit allow time to go in town and see places like the coffee shop or the pier. Getting off campus can give you better feel of the place you will live in and not just the pretty places you see on the campus tour.
Great for these types of students
Anyone you wants to know everyone on campus, eventually you will no longer see an unfamiliar face. Chestertown is small so anyone who likes a small town, close-knit community feel, Washington College is perfect. Also those you plan to major in political science or international studies there is a very strong program. This was the reason I came to Washington college. All the internships available in every field are amazing and give you a great foot in the door to opportunities after college.

Anastasia from Jackson, NJ

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Washington College is your home-away-from-home. Everyone is dedicated to their studies and each person you encounter on campus has a bright personality which welcomes you! the campus has wonderful history behind it and it centrally located between DC, New York and Philadelphia.
Tips for prospective students
Come visit the school and fall in love for yourself. We have very small class sizes so you are more than just a number at Washington College. Everyone knows one another and the professors know who you are as well. At Washington College you are able to build a name for yourself and work closely with faculty and staff to ensure a successful experience over the four years!
Academic Rigor
Classes are not impossible but they definitely challenge you. As a Liberal Arts College, we are pushed to take courses within various disciplines to ensure well-rounded individuals emerge into the world after four years!
Dorm Life
As a member of our residence life staff I can attest to the wonderful environment of the various dorms on campus. There are so many possibilities of where to live, but no matter which dorm you choose, there is always a welcoming environment for all students!
Food and Dining
Our dining hall has won various awards for their service and dishes provided to students. Many visitors are surprised at how wonderful our dining hall staff is and how great the college food tastes! There are always alternative meals and options for students who are within a strict diet or are restricted to specific foods. Every meal is different and each meal time has more than 7 stations of food!
What to do for fun
There are over 130 recognized clubs and sports on campus so there is something for everyone to do! It is very easy to get involved! Historic Chestertown also allows for students to explore new opportunities as there is water front property which is located right within town on the Chester River.
Bang for the buck
Don't let the price scare you! Most students attend Washington College on a generous scholarship as provided by our donors!

Alexandra from Narvon, PA

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Washington College is a small liberal arts college in a small town with unbelievably big opportunities. After being here for only two months, I already feel right at home, and I've become involved in so much within such a short span. The professors and administration are some of the brightest, most admirable people I have ever met, and I feel inspired each and every day; I wouldn't rather be anywhere else.
Tips for prospective students
Work hard and do well in school, get good grades, etc. . . But more importantly, learn, have fun, find something unique that you are interested in and pursue it!
Academic Rigor
I feel challenged in each of my classes, but not to the point where I am unreasonably overwhelmed.
Dorm Life
It depends on where you live, but I personally have not encountered any problems. It's always clean, rooms are fairly big, and in my experience, the dorm becomes a community of people who you are fairly close with.
Food and Dining
The dining hall offers a great variety and quality of food. My mom is a chef, and even she was impressed when we visited! There is something for everybody.
What to do for fun
For fun, students can always venture into Chestertown and chat with friends at one of the cafes available, go to the movies, or relax by the beautiful Chester River. The campus in itself has a wide array of options. There are so many clubs and activities planned that between those, homework, and sleep, one simply cannot be too bored. Just the other weekend was homecoming, then there was a fall country concert, and there are a few more concerts coming up as well! All free of charge, might I add. It's really a great, fun and educational environment.
Bang for the buck
It is a very expensive college. That being said, they are VERY generous with financial aid if you need it and/or if you work hard. I would not be attending this school without their wonderful financial aid.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Mayday.... Enough said.
Great for these types of students
Hard working, self-motivated students with goals- the career center can help give any student a sense of direction, though!
Clubs and Activities
There are so many clubs and activities. I could never list them all.
Greek Life
Not for me personally, but I know a lot of people involved with greek life who love it!
Campus Safety
Maybe I'm a little biased because I work at public safety, but I can't imagine feeling more secure!

Ceaira from Cornwall, NY

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
WAC truly cares for its students. Despite the small size, a student can find programs that suit their interests. The professors also go out of their way and make it their top priority to help the students in any way that they can.
Tips for prospective students
You do not have to have a major in mind already (one of the pluses WAC has for being a liberal arts college). Take a wide range of classes (not 20 classes, but different types of classes) your first year so that you can experience more than the usual courses that you did in high school. Also, your professors and advisors are there for you, so don't be afraid to go to them.
Academic Rigor
You give what you get- if you do not want to take your classes seriously, then do not be surprised when your grades are not where you want them to be.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is what you make it. If you allow yourself, you can have the best experience ever, and meet some incredible people who may become treasured friends.
Food and Dining
Hey, it is infinitely better than high school cafeteria food. Mondos Subs are amazing, by the way.
What to do for fun
Personally, I enjoy the Student Center since they have the latest game systems and games. More often than not, I also have friends over in my room to watch anime, movies, or play video games- life's not bad.
But if that's not your thing, WAC always has events going on, on campus. There's even Open Mike Night, and we've got plenty of clubs. And in case you don't check your e-mails, there's a huge calendar in Hodson (that's where our cafeteria is) that shows what's going on.
Bang for the buck
I really can't complain. WAC has helped me to enjoy college life.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
May Day... you'll just have to see it for yourself.
Great for these types of students
Any type of student you are- artsy, athletic, academic- there is something here for you.
Clubs and Activities
We've got a wide range of clubs: from Fakespeare, to language clubs, to Asian Culture club, to a club for video gamers, to community service clubs, to sports clubs; and if there is a club you are interested that WAC does not have yet, you can always start one (it's not impossible- we started the Gamers Guild for those who enjoy video games).
Greek Life
Never a dull moment?? From what I hear though, Greek life has become an incredible way to get connected on campus and to help students later in life as well. Don't let yourself be bound by petty stereotypes.
Campus Safety
Sure, you may trip every now and then, but we don't have to worry about the more serious safety concerns (as I'm sure is the case with even those taking their walks of shame before the crack of dawn).

Martianee from Pennsauken, NJ

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Washington College has a great academic system. The professors that I had so far, really made an effort to get to know each student. Each professor is passionate about what their teaching and making sure that we understand the concepts completely. My calculus teacher said that teaching a student the concept of calculus is worth more than a six figure salary I once had. That is the passion that these professors possess, to them its not just teaching, its knowing that they made a difference in someones life.
Am enjoying being here
There is always something to do on campus. Whether its a party, studying, or just hanging out with friends. Now I must admit, it is a different environment from the city life that I'm used to, but you really start to love it. I love it here because you don't always have to go to a party every weekend. Hodson Hall hosts parties mostly every weekend and they are always alcohol-free. Hodson is also the home of karaoke night, talent show and other fun events. If you feel like watching a movie, SGA sets up movies on the campus green, or inside the student center if its a rainy day. These are just some of the exciting activities offered by our peers.
Bang for the buck
Washington College is on the pricey side, but the education you will receive is worth it. Every Professor has office hours to help and if you cant make it, they are very flexible, by trying to work around your schedule. There is also the Math and Writing Center, Office of Academic Skills, tutoring, etc. Even though it is pricey, the amount of financial aid given to students who qualify, can really help take the financial burden off your shoulder.
Tips for prospective students
The best thing to do is visit the campus. Find out everything you need to know about the school, the area, and everything in between. College life is a big transition from high school, so I would recommend listening to the peer mentors and taking their programs seriously. In terms of education, I recommend that even though you have a lot of time, procrastination can be your worst nightmare! You don't want to wait the night before to write a paper, or study, when it was given two weeks before. My final tip is to just have fun, relax (try not to stress too much), and don't be afraid to talk to teachers or use other extended sources (ie Math Center) if you need help!
Great for these types of students
Washington College is a great place for students who still want that sense of family. It is not a big campus, so it allows you to have a closer relationship with your peers. This college is also great for students who are serious about their studies and their grades. Students who want a small teacher- student ratio will also love this school because teachers see you as you versus seeing you as a number at a larger school. My biology class had about 65-70 students, and my professor knew everyone's name and made and effort to interact with everyone in the classroom.

Arlvin from Forest Hill, MD

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Washington College is a small liberal arts college in Chestertown, Maryland. Since enrolling to WC i have learned a substantial amount of new things. Since being a liberal arts college WC encourages you to try classes that you might not think about taking. My first semester I took a fine arts class called Beginning Drawing. I first thought to take this class to fulfill a requirement, but i realized how much I really like drawing. I learned many new skills to improve my drawings and they brought my drawings to a whole new level. I now still draw in my spare time even though I am not taking that class anymore.
Am enjoying being here
You will enjoy being here at Washington College. There are so many activities and clubs that you can get involved with. WC is conveniently located near the Chester River, and we have a boat house on the river bank. You can go rent a kayak from the boat house, and go out on the river and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Also, if you like to fish you can go out take you fishing pole and fish, and Chestertown being such a small town you will be rarely disturbed with loud noises, that would scar away the fish. There are truly so many activities you can do to have fun here. You would actually have to try really hard to be bored for an extensive amount time here.
Bang for the buck
Being a private school that does not receive the same amount of funding if any like the big state schools, Washington College does have quite a tuition fee. Paying that tuition gives you access to so many resources right at your disposal. There are Writing Centers and Math Centers that will help you with anything you need for that class. Also have many workshops that will teach you study and test taking skills. Also, what WC offers that some other college do not offer are labs. If you are interested in studying a science you will get to have hands on experiences with experiments based on the content you are learning in that class. The benefits also at WC are that the teachers are very accessible and have more access to one on one conversations with them. All of my teachers know me and mostly everyone in my class by name. You can not get that type of student/teacher relationship in other big schools. Washington College is definitely worth the expense.
Tips for prospective students
If you are looking for a small school that has great a great student/teacher ratio Washington College is a great school for that. WC being a liberal arts college are able not only take classes for you intended major, but also classes that you are interested in. Also, who knows you might find something that you are more interested in and decided to study that. I am sure you will not only love the scenery and the school; the people here are very friendly and easy to get along with. If you are interested in looking at Washington College do not just take my word for it. I highly recommend that you schedule a visit or come to one of our open houses.
Great for these types of students
Washington College is really great for students who are looking for a small school in a rural area. It is great for students looking to really study in anything. WC has a vast majority of majors that might interest you.