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Western Washington University

Average Rating Details

Learn a lot

Enjoy being here

Bang for the buck

  • 7 out of 7 people found this review useful.

    Patricia from Brush Prairie, WA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    WWU’s faculty can be characterized as innovative, challenging, and accommodating. Most every classroom is equipped with the technology to allow for multi-media presentations, so you will never have a talking head professor. The professors try to cater to every type of learner through these different mediums and apply what you learn to the real world. For me, this type of instruction included completing a project that will be used by Western faculty and affect the way they teach. You will never go hungry for knowledge with the fast paced and interactive classroom environment. Speaking up and speaking out in class is common, encouraged, and the best way to solidify class concepts. If you need help, want to talk more in-depth about a topic, just ask your professors. They’re accessible and very willing to work with you, provide feedback, or write letters of reference. Talk to students, scan www.ratemyprofessors.com and choose your professors wisely. WWU also has an excellent library with the Interlibrary Loan (ILLiad) and Summit catalog as well as an extensive article database for writing papers. If you ever struggle, your peers at the Tutoring Center will be right there with you to sort out whatever complicated idea you’re trying to wrap your brain around.

    Am enjoying being here

    Walking through Red Square between classes, you’ll see booths for activities, clubs, and causes along with random student stunts and skits. Red Square is like the living room of WWU and reflects the quirky, energetic students that call WWU home. Since WWU’s enrollment is midsized (around 13,000), you will not feel lost among swarms of people and will have plenty of opportunities to get involved in student leadership that might not be presented at other, larger universities. Although you don’t get the “big school” sports craze, most students here are very athletic, and so you’re more likely to play sports than watch them here (intramurals). The Recreation Center is a great facility and I would highly encourage working out regularly. My days at Western are full, active, enjoyable days. Everything I learn inside and outside the classroom makes me glad to be here. Not to mention, Bellingham is a beautiful city with entertainment and personality that’s only 90 minutes from the bustling Seattle scene or Vancouver, British Columbia.

    Bang for the buck

    If you choose your professors wisely, enroll for up to 18 credits (it costs the same as less credits), use the resources that your tuition fees cover, and buy used textbooks, then you’re getting a great deal. Tuition prices are very reasonable, but increasing, and so the best way to get the biggest bang for your buck is to get involved and use all of the resources. The Scholarship Center, Technology Center, Writing Center, Student Employment Office, and Viking Union are excellent places to start. Plenty of events on campus offer free food, music, film, art, lectures, prizes, games—you name it. Facebook and the Viking Union will keep you posted on all the happenings. When you buy textbooks, check out the coupon booklet they give you at the register that’s loaded with discounts. Also, take advantage of free PE classes during the first week of every term since it’s a great way to vary your workout and meet new people. Western constantly strives to better their campus community and the university experience through their resources. Even with budget cuts, WWU looks for ways to offer their students uncompromised, high quality education. Learning isn’t just about listening to a lecture, or writing down notes, but doing. Do everything you can to succeed and you will.

    Tips for prospective students

    Invest in a pair of rain boots and a high quality jacket. When you have to walk through the lake that was once Red Square, you’ll thank me! Go to Info Fair before classes start in the fall. Not only will you get more detail on opportunities, but you can win gear, get some grub, and will never have to buy a pen (ever). If you enjoy reading the newspaper, grab a free copy of The New York Times by the library before you head to class. Attend at least one Open Mike Night on a Tuesday in the Underground Coffee House for laughs and lyrics. Study tip: If you’re looking for a reliable computer to work on, then make the trek to the 3rd floor of the Academic Instructional Center. Library and other academic building labs tend to be full or faulty, but these labs are the most recently constructed. Going to a school wondering ‘what will this school do for me?’ is not nearly as productive and engaging as ‘what can I do for this school?’ Produce real change at Western by serving on a committee, council, or the Student Senate, or by attending a forum. Western tries to put as many students as possible in jobs and positions that affect how the school is run. You make this school as prestigious, accommodating, and fun as you want it to be. I’ve presented a lot of options, but really the depth, not the breadth of what you pursue on campus determines whether or not you have a fulfilling experience. Invest in whatever gets you truly excited.

    Great for these types of students

    Students committed to the environment and sustainability will align with Western’s green practices, from their recycling program to the swarms of bikers to their support of real food movements (local, organic, fair trade food). Not to mention, the outdoor enthusiast will find plenty of places to climb, board, hike, kayak, sail around and near Bellingham (Mt. Baker, anyone?). Anybody interested in social change, whether you’re gaga for politics or love volunteering, will find excellent ways to get involved either on campus or off. Western students have endless enthusiasm for campus, community, and world issues with good reason—only the proactive and self-motivated survive here. Lovers of all things indie will find a thriving local music scene and great (and cheap) concerts at Western and in Seattle.

  • 7 out of 7 people found this review useful.

    Stephanie from Spokane, WA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Aside from some 100 level classes, class sizes are generally small (at most 20-30 students), allowing for more one-on-one time between students and professors. In my experience, all of my professors have made themselves very available to students and have offered plenty of opportunities for extra help if needed. Classes are engaging and professors are very enthusiastic about their subjects, making learning all the more enjoyable.
    Am enjoying being here

    There is always something going on at Western, and Bellingham is a beautiful city. The campus is on top of a hill overlooking gorgeous Bellingham Bay and the eastern side of the San Juan Islands. Residential living is very comfortable, and the residence hall staff does their best to make sure that everyone feels comfortable and included in their new environments. It's difficult to be bored when you're living in Bellingham: Boulevard Park is located right on the water and is only a short walk from campus; downtown is also within walking distance of campus, and there are a multitude of shops and restaurants that are frequented by students. Each student gets a city bus pass with tuition, and the transit system is very easy to navigate.

    Bang for the buck

    Having just finished my first year at Western, I can honestly say that my time there thus far has been well worth the price. I have absolutely loved living in Bellingham, and being a part of the Western community is a ton of fun! Not only are classes fun and engaging, but there is always something going on on campus. Advisors and professors make themselves easily available to students, and the campus Tutoring Center is another great resource for helping students to succeed. I lived in the dorms this past year and found it to be comfortable and enjoyable. I would recommend that all students try living on campus for a year just for the experience if nothing else. In comparison to some other colleges around the state, Western definitely gives you the most bang for your buck.
    Tips for prospective students

    While at Western, don't be afraid to try new things! There is an information fair each fall a couple of days before school starts and all the clubs and various student organizations turn out to connect to students and get people involved in the student community. If you love sports but find that you aren't exactly varsity material, give intramural sports a try! These are student run sports teams that compete against each other throughout their season, and there's even a tournament at the end of the season to decide the season's champion. The winner even gets The Shirt to show that he's won! Also, membership to the student rec center is included with tuition, so be sure to make the most out of that and try a class or two at the rec center. No matter your level of physical fitness, the rec center has something for everyone!
    Great for these types of students

    Honestly, Western's got a little bit of everything. Despite it's reputation as a granola or hippy school, Western has one of the most diverse campuses in the state. A lot of people here are very athletic and enjoy running up to Mt. Baker to ski or snowboard in the winter, but just as many enjoy biking or hiking on any of the area trails. Also, with Bellingham Bay, the San Juan Islands, and Seattle such a short distance away, there's always something to do! Western is a very accepting community and it seems almost impossible not to fit in here!

  • 6 out of 6 people found this review useful.

    Alyssa from Carpinteria, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    My experience with Westerns professors is challenging yet very helpful in accommodating to the needs of students if they choose to ask for help. Being a student that speaks up in class and encourages the teacher to go further in depth is highly recommended and it shows the students understanding to the professor and gives more advantages to those students. Almost all professors encourage you to come and speak with them outside of class if you have any questions ranging from you are confused to you believe what they are saying can be challenged. I recommend talking to previous students and using rate my professor when picking what classes you enroll in because it does make a huge difference. The tutoring services at Western are highly recommended also. I personally used them for math several times throughout the year. They make it so it is available to all students and those working it are very helpful.
    Am enjoying being here

    Western is a place with many opportunities. The Outdoors center on campus offers many activities for those interested in the outdoors and even those interested in just trying. When there are sporting events on campus they are a fun even to attend and everyone gets very into the Viking mood. Bellingham is a wonderful city to explore with many different activities you can find to do. It’s also not to far from Mt. Baker, Seattle or Vancouver, BC where many students tend to spend their weekends throughout the year. Just go after what you are interested in and you can usually find a group of people interested in the same.
    Bang for the buck

    Even though Western has been quite expensive being an out of state student I do have to say after my first year it was all worth it even if it may be a little high priced. Western makes sure to put every dollar to pay to use and aren't cutting you out of anything!
    Tips for prospective students

    If you are from out of area, like I was, I recommend making sure you know about the area you are moving into. Bellingham is a great place but the weather does get to some people and can make it seem like you hate the school. Make sure you have a good pair of rain boots and high quality rain coat. Its no fun walking through the slippery, puddled bricks on campus in tennis shoes and jeans and having to go to class sopping wet. Western students have a very laid back personality and everyone that I ever dealt with was very friendly. The bus system is a great way to get around and can take you pretty much anywhere.
    Great for these types of students

    Western and Bellingham is a great place for students who care about the environment and making it a greener place. Bellingham is very big on the recycling and compost and once you come an leave you will be too. It is also great for those interested in all sorts of outdoor activities because you can find about pretty much anything to do. Bellingham is a great place for those who don't want to have the big city feel but still have many of the same resources as one.

  • 4 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Erin from Olympia, WA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I am a sophomore science major in the honors program. Between the two programs I have taken courses that have challenged me and pushed me to improve. Like any other activity you get as much out of college as you put in and Western has a lot to offer for those who are willing. The professors are fantastic and genuinely interested in their class matter. They are supportive and, like any good teacher, encourage you to do the best you can. Having an enthusiastic professor can make all the difference. Western is a great atmosphere for learning.
    Am enjoying being here

    Western has a beautiful campus no matter the time of year and Bellingham itself is delightful, whenever I need a break from school I can walk downtown or take a bus to Fairhaven. One of the reasons I chose Western was because it is so close to the Puget Sound and I don't regret the decision. I have made wonderful friends and the campus is extraordinarily friendly and welcoming. I have never felt unsafe on campus even walking late at night. It's easy to have fun.
    Bang for the buck

    College is always expensive. As far as tuition goes Western is comparable to any other university, campus housing and meal plans are the same ridiculous price as anywhere else, the difference for me has been the amount of financial aid offered. Even with the present economic condition Western still is offering financial aid through scholarships and grants. For the education I'm receiving and the experiences I'm accruing Western is amazing.
    Tips for prospective students

    Remember, even when it seems like you'll need a boat to cross the mudpuddles, the sun will return. Don't forget to have fun.
    Great for these types of students

    Western is great for people who enjoy the outdoors. Between Bellingham Bay, and Lakewood (Western's boathouse on a nearby lake where you can rent a sailboat, kayak or wind board for $4) there are many opportunities for water sports. Also, Mount Baker is a quick drive away and their are incredible hiking, camping, mountain climbing and biking opportunities in Bellingham. Academically I can speak as a science student. In my first year of college I was able to use equipment unavailable to students at a larger school like UW until their junior or senior years. Western has their own marine center at Shannon point and their are numerous research opportunities with the professors.

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Anthony from Seattle, WA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Being here at Western you learn in the classroom as well as outside of the classroom. But I assume like any other colleges, there are classes that get pretty dull or some of the material may not be delivered in the right fashion to some students. Just utilize your resources online and friends if possible about which professors have the most effective teaching methods. Outside of the classroom you learn to be independent if living away from home and you learn a lot about others who come from different backgrounds.
    Am enjoying being here

    Western is not too big such as other colleges in the state of Washington (UW) but it is not too small either. It's the perfect size to meet people and get around campus and the city. It gets very cold at times but that just comes along with the weather in the Pacific Northwest. The recreational center is very nice, there are basketball/volleyball courts, rock wall, swimming pool, weight room, lounge area and the equipment works great!

    Bang for the buck

    Bellingham is not too far or too close from where I live, which is in Seattle. It is not a large urban city but it is peaceful for the most part. Class sizes are not enormous aside from the few hundreds in lecture classes. And the courses you select depends on how thoroughly you look into what your class structures are like to see if you can mange it or not.
    Tips for prospective students

    When entering as a freshmen you do not want to take courses that are too difficult. Take classes that you can handle and gradually get acclimated with the college lifestyle. Get involved in clubs, intramurals, or other extra curricular activities that will enable you to meet people from other parts of the state or country.
    Great for these types of students

    IF you are a student that enjoys the outdoors and like nature, Western is almost the ideal place to go. There is a great view of the Bellingham Bay at the Viking Commons (1/3 of WWU Dining Halls) There is also an arboretum that you can explore as well.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Connor from Bellingham, WA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Like any University, Western has it's good professor's as well as the bad ones. However, the large majority of professors here are extremely good at what they do. They are here because they love to teach, and it shows. Many of them are prepared to dedicate their own personal time to help students who are willing to put in the same effort. Many of my own professors have not only been good educators but have come to be close friends as well.
    Am enjoying being here

    Bellingham WA is one of the greatest small cities in America. It is situated right at the northwest corner of Washington and sits between the Ocean, Canada, and Mt. Baker which holds the world record for annual snowfall. Western fits perfectly into this atmosphere and provides the feeling of a small community within a decently sized and well respected University. The people here are very open and extremely friendly. There are a lot of very different characters around campus and embracing that diversity is a core goal at WWU.
    Bang for the buck

    Western is a moderately priced school and offers a great education for the money.

    Tips for prospective students

    If you are considering attending WWU there are a few things to keep in mind. The lower level classes can become quite large and reach over 200 students. Once you get into your discipline though class sizes drop dramatically and most students are able to receive some great one on one experience. With this in mind it is very important to speak up in classes. It can be very easy to be intimidated in a large classroom but by adding to the classroom discussion it becomes very easy to create a small classroom feel.
    Great for these types of students

    Western is a very progressive school. Anybody wishing to study education will be delighted by the different education programs offered at WWU. It is home to one of the oldest Environmental colleges in the country and also houses Fairhaven College, which is an alternative style program designed to give students a much more intimate education designed around group dialogue and community exploration.

  • 1 out of 5 people found this review useful.

    Eric from Everett, WA

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    Will enjoy being here

    Bang for the buck

  • Magdalene from Bellingham, WA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    All of my teachers are amazing, and have so much to teach. The honors program especially has great teachers, and I highly recommend them. There are a few teachers that are not as good, be sure to ask around during your first quarter to find out who not to take classes from.

    Am enjoying being here

    The people are great at the school, and there are plenty of activities to participate in at the school and around Bellingham. It's a great town.

    Bang for the buck

    It is spendy for an out of state student, and as they continue to make budget cuts most likely not worth the costs. It is also super expensive to live on or off campus, and food prices in Washington are much higher than in Minnesota. If I were an in state student it would be awesome. As it is I am looking into transferring.

    Tips for prospective students

    If you have a decent GPA and good test scores seriously look into getting into the honors program. The director Dr. Mariz is awesome, and all of the teachers are great. Try to get Margaritis for Honors 103!!
    Great for these types of students

    In State Students
    Music Majors
    Education Majors