Lewis & Clark College
Portland, OR, USA

Reviews

Lewis & Clark College

Maelia from Ashland, OR

a current student here
23 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I find most of my classes interesting, and all of them challenging. I've learned things about subjects that I never thought would interest me!
Am enjoying being here
The college has a great environment, protected from the city, but still close to it, and the grounds are beautiful. I've made lots of friends, and I really enjoy the laid-back but academic lifestyle.
Tips for prospective students
Be prepared for rain, and ready to be liberal in your views and creative in your presentation of yourself.
Great for these types of students
academic, laid-back, adventuresome, environmentally conscious, friendly, hippie

Jessica from Seattle, WA

a current student here
12 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
All of my classes at Lewis and Clark are great. I am learning alot from all of my teachers, and whenever I have a question it is easy to find them during office hours or through email.
Am enjoying being here
The student population here at Lewis and Clark is extremely welcoming and friendly. I am a freshman here at LC and during my first week here, New Student Orientation week, I met a ton of new people all of whom were very helpful and nice. Aside from all the wonderful students, the campus is beautiful. Residing on top of a hill, Lewis and Clark is located in a quaint neighborhood full of lots of trees. On clear days I can see Mt. Hood on my walks to the academic side of campus. Also the drive up the hill from downtown Portland overlooks the Willamette river and surrounding areas, which is an amazing view.
Bang for the buck
Lewis and Clark is definitely worth the steep price they charge. First off you get a first rate education, the professors are great and hold regular office hours where they are more than happy to help you with whatever problems you encounter. Not to mention the class sizes are great, the biggest lectures only have roughly 40 students in them (which is great in comparison to some of the larger schools 400!). Secondly if you don't feel comfortable or it doesn't fit your schedule to meet with a professor we have great student tutors that you can meet with up to 2 hours each week for free! Right now I'm seeing a tutor for my physics class and its extremely helpful. The tutors can help you study for tests, complete homework problems, even edit papers for you.
On a different note, the tuition covers the RAZ, a free student shuttle that takes students downtown. The Raz runs everyday, except for holidays, and makes stops at Fred Meyers, Market of Choice, and others along the way.
Great for these types of students
Lewis and CLark is a great school for someone who doesn't want to be overwhelmed by the enormity of a large state school. It has a great feeling of community, and after nearly a year here I feel like I know or atleast recognize 75% of the students here. Getting involved in on campus activities is really easy to do, thus making it a great place for anyone who is interested in that. There is a strong art program with great ceramic and art studios for those who enjoy art. Basically Lewis and Clark is great for anyone who wants a small, yet not as small or prestigious as Reed, with a feeling of community. However the size is a large factor, and if you have any hesitations about attending a school with an undergrad population of roughly 2,000 then Lewis and Clark might not be for you.

Grace from Edmonds, WA

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The classes are fairly rigorous, but nothing that can't be kept up with. I am learning information that was never taught to me in high school. All of the professors I have had are very accessible during office hours and are really encouraging to make sure that you fully understand the coursework.
Am enjoying being here
The campus life is awesome. Lewis & Clark is a small college with a fairly tight-knit community. There is a place for everyone on this campus. The college makes is easy to have fun on campus without spending a lot of money: the activities range from dances and movies to concerts on campus from great artists and chances to get outdoors and go hiking and kayaking.
Bang for the buck
Sure this school can cost a lot of money, but financial aid and scholarships are available to most students. I feel like for the money I am paying, I am getting the quality of education and small class sizes that I need in order to succeed in college.
Tips for prospective students
Be prepared for college and actually try your hardest coming out of the gate: don't take the easiest classes of your college career during the first semester, challenge yourself and see what great things can happen. Keep calm and carry on.
Great for these types of students
If you are a smart, eco-conscious, liberal art minded student: you will love it here. If you are looking for an easy way out: you may not find yourself loving life at LC.

Shannon from West Hills, CA

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Lewis & Clark is a wonderful and open community of students, faculty, and administrators. There are thousands of educational opportunities not only on campus, but in the surrounding community and over-seas. Instead of just being a number in a system, each student is personally accounted for at Lewis & Clark.
Tips for prospective students
If you can, visit the school and stay overnight at a different time than the Prospective Students weekend. Tell your host what you would like to see on campus and what you would like to experience. There is an incredibly diverse student body for such a small school, so don't be discouraged if during your trip you don't find your clique.
Academic Rigor
Classes at Lewis & Clark College are actually challenging. While each class has different elements (quizzes, multiple midterms, homework, etc.), they all require students to actually grasp the material.
Dorm Life
Each of the dorms has a different feel to it. They all become tight-knit communities given the small size of the school. The rooms are nice, the bathrooms are spacious, and the kitchens have all you need to cook a meal.
Food and Dining
The Bon has wonderful choices, especially for vegetarians, vegans, and celiacs. When compared to other college dining experiences, the food is fabulous and deserves 5 stars. However, when compared to the wonderful food in downtown Portland, the Bon is mediocre. Maggie's and the Dovecote are wonderful as well, but there are no 24 hour food venues on campus.
What to do for fun
On campus there is always something happening. There are Improv Shows, Fire-Knife Club Shows, concerts, dances, movie showings, and so much more. Since the campus is in a residential neighborhood, the closest restaurants are a few miles away. There are bus stops by the stores though. Furthermore, there are small movie theatres and other shops that are in Lake Oswego and Burlingame. The Pio Shuttle Bus runs every hour to downtown Portland and it is 100% free. Obviously there are a thousand things to do once you are in the city.
Bang for the buck
I personally love Lewis & Clark. There are obviously things that are being improved upon and things that the student body would like to see changed, but they are not big enough problems that cause the school to not be worth your money. In order to make these improvements, tuition was raised this past year which is quite upsetting considering how much the school already costs. I do believe that the education we receive, the amenities available to us, and the opportunities that are presented are worth the money.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
There are seven legendary spots such as Narnia. I'd tell you more, but you need to find out for yourself! The tree house in the forest is a fun spot on the weekends, as well as the bonfires by the river (which require a bit of a hike). South campus is gorgeous, especially when there is good weather, and it is quite fun during the snow and around Halloween. There is also the virginity tree near the Forest dorms, the Naked Mile, and much more.
Great for these types of students
Students who want a small community and a personal learning environment; students who enjoy the rain, the gray, and the fog; students who are open to all people and traditions; students who are academically and/or musically inclined; students who are looking for an easy-going community; students who are looking to play sports, but not at an extremely competitive level
Clubs and Activities
There are thousands!!! There is a club for everyone!
Greek Life
Non-existent
Campus Safety
Our Campus Safety officers work hard to protect our students. I have never felt unsafe walking around campus at night because it is such a small and safe community, there are safety blue lights all over campus, and the guards are always on duty driving around.

Lana from Bremerton, WA

accepted here and planning to attend soon
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Lewis & Clark College is my dream school. It has everything I wanted in a school. I am ecstatic to be attending L&C this Fall!
Academic Rigor
One of the main components that attracted me to L&C was the academic rigor. Classes are small and intimate, professors are passionate, and students are all excited to learn. I could imagine no better environment in which to challenge myself.
Dorm Life
Dorms at L&C are well above the standards of most schools. Amenities such as snack machines, cable TV, wireless internet, and even fireplaces are available in all dorms. Each individual dorm caters to a specific community, and so it is very easy for students to become involved in dorm life.
Food and Dining
L&C is known for their exceptional meal options, which include some of the healthiest in the country. Vegan and vegetarian options also abound. It's not hard to be healthy at L&C.
What to do for fun
Portland is one of the friendliest and most diverse cities I have ever known. The heart of the city is just a quick shuttle ride way!
Bang for the buck
While Lewis & Clark is known for being an expensive private school, it also have the resources and endowment to provide excellent scholarships for its accepted students. Last year, $25.7 million was provided to the entire student body in the way of grants and scholarships. L&C also has a job placement program for graduating seniors, which takes a lot of the stress out of job hunting.
Great for these types of students
L&C is the perfect school for anyone who wants college to be an adventure. After the great pioneers of the west, Lewis & Clark aims to create a passion for Exploration and Discovery (which is, coincidentally, the name of its first year introductory course). This is a special place where students are given the resources they need to become successful in the world.

Taylor from Portland, OR

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
A small private school filled with a wide array of students, Lewis & Clark College helps you get out of your comfort zone in a positive way! It reminds me of high school by the way the school functions together, and how close the student body truly is. The College is well known for its award-winning and nationally ranked academics, but also a great school with a ton of school pride and a love for its athletics.
Tips for prospective students
Lewis & Clark is a demanding school because they expect the best from their students, however that should not be discouraging to hear. I have never attended a school that had faculty on hand devoted to aiding their students and entirely invested in making them better individuals not only as students, but as people. It is a wonderful small school with a ton of school spirit, and fun athletics. If you are particularly interested in traveling abroad there is a wonderful program here, (it is practically required to travel abroad); and if you are interested in Sciences then I also recommend L&C. Our science department was recently rated above the department at Reed! Take that Reed!
Academic Rigor
It is a demanding school but entirely do-able. The greater reward comes from the student's dedication to working hard.
Dorm Life
The dorms are a little lacking, but the friendships made makes up for the small sizes in some of the dorm buildings. On the other hand, the on-campus apartments are amazing! You can either have a two bedroom apartment or a four bedroom apartment; both equipped with a kitchen and its own bathroom, living area, and plenty of closet space!
Food and Dining
Granted, anyone can get tired of eating dorm food. However, L&C should take pride in how diversely equipped they are to meet the health needs of its wide array of students! Every dish is clearly labeled and warns of any form of allergy. There are numerous vegetarian and vegan options every day, along with dishes that are gluten free. The meals are very accommodating.
What to do for fun
It is incredibly hard to NOT find something to do. With campus being so close to Portland, one quick bus ride away makes it incredibly easy for almost any type of activity. From walks on the waterfront to visiting the highly acclaimed VooDoo Doughnuts, there are so many things to do. The city is not the only place to enjoy your day. There are plenty of sporting events, accapella concerts, games put on by the school, movies, and so much more right on campus.
Bang for the buck
Like any private college, you're going to have to empty your wallet (and more). Luckily, this school is incredible with its financial aid. The only reason why I am able to attend this school is because of the aid I received! Attending L&C may break the bank, but it is entirely worth it. You would be attending an incredible school that is commonly referred to as an ivy-league institution on the West Coast. Don't believe me? My biology professor used to teach at Harvard University... Our school provides the best teaching staff to make the best out of its students. What also helps is the incredibly alumni and donors to the college. There are many gateways waiting to be open because of the schools alumni.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Every year for finals there are activities to do during dead week. First semester there was a giant dodge ball tournament, and second semester a water pong tournament.

Any interesting location would be on South Campus, part of the Graduate Campus. Over there is a place everyone calls Narnia because there is a huge row of arborvitae-type trees that line up and connect at the tops, making an almost secret passageway that you would expect to find in a fairy-tale, hence why it has the name of Narnia.
Great for these types of students
Smart
Outgoing
Out of the Ordinary
Quiet
International
Athletic
Hard-working
Environmentalist
City-dwellers
Liberal
Clubs and Activities
There are clubs for just about anythings at Lewis & Clark. From Parkour to Poetry Reading and anything that could lay in between.
Greek Life
none
Campus Safety
I have never worried about my own safety on campus. Campus safety officers are one quick phone call away. Many students on campus are friends with the officers as well.

Benjamin from Morrison, CO

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Lewis & Clark is a great school to attend. The classes are small and challenging. The professors care enough to take extra time with students and focus on making their class material relevant...no busy work.
Tips for prospective students
Only apply if you are willing to work hard. Understand that you will be asked to push yourself in all areas of studies. Have an open mind - L&C encourages open-mindedness and tolerance.
Academic Rigor
You can take on as much as you want and can handle. You will not be bored.
Dorm Life
Choose your themed dorm based on what kind of environment you will be happiest in. It makes a difference being surrounded by others with similar styles.
Food and Dining
On campus food is ok, but you'll want a few extra dollars each week for a trip to the food carts in Portland. Get an in-room fridge for extras, and bring some cooking utensils so you can make your own food in the dorm kitchens occasionally.
What to do for fun
Go to Portland! Music, theatre, Powells Book Store, great food, etc. Also great hiking all around.
Bang for the buck
It is expensive, but there are good scholarships and grants available.
Great for these types of students
Creative, open-minded, intelligent, hard-working, ambitious but laid back.
Greek Life
None...which is nice!

Rachel from Bend, OR

accepted here and planning to attend soon
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Lewis & Clark is absolutely beautiful. The campus is a fresh mix between nature and old buildings that gives it a good feeling. Everyone was incredibly helpful and friendly.
Tips for prospective students
Everyone considering Lewis & Clark should visit the campus. I had one idea in my head, and then toured the campus and came up with an entirely different perspective. There is no way that they could convey everything just in a welcome packet.
Dorm Life
I absolutely love the dorms. There is a niche for everyone. Definitely tour the campus to get a good idea of this though, or you might think you want one place, but really fall in love with another.
Food and Dining
Cafeteria food is cafeteria food, no matter how you slice it. But the food court really isn't too bad. I've had a lot worse. I accidentally cut through the kitchen trying to find an elevator for my mom and I saw a lot of fresh foods, so I have no problem eating in the dining hall.
Bang for the buck
I come from a very low income family, and while L&C really shouldn't be in my price range at all, I was eligible for the Lewis & Clark Grant and that brought it into a much more affordable range. It's a private college so you can get a lot of institutional funding to make going to school here more realistic. There are a wide variety of incredible opportunities available at L&C that may not be accessible elsewhere, such as undergraduate research, which was a selling point for me.
Campus Safety
Every dorm has an access pad, so only students can get in.

Elena from Lynden, WA

accepted here and planning to attend soon
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Outdoorsy, friendly, community
Tips for prospective students
Definitely visit the campus! I read about L&C online on multiple websites but never really got the full impact of the school until I visited the campus and talked with current students.
Academic Rigor
The classes are small and taught by professors. This applies to all of the classes, not just the senior highest-level classes. Most things on campus are entirely student-run, including the International Affairs Symposium every spring. There is certainly a high degree of quality and academic rigor expected of the students, but the professors are willing to help you through it.
Dorm Life
The variety of dorms is amazing. There is a dorm for every personality. Roommates are selected by hand using detailed roommate questionnaires. In addition, there is a facebook page for accepted students where you can post a short bio and find a roommate that way.
Food and Dining
The meal plans are a little expensive for the quality of the food. Having said that, the quality of the food is really good. The on-campus food service, Bon Appetite, uses local fresh ingredients and has vegan, vegetarian, dairy free, and gluten free options.
What to do for fun
Downtown Portland is 20 minutes from campus, and a free bus leaves the campus every hour.
Clubs and Activities
There are so many clubs...if you don't see a club offered, you have the ability as a student to create a club.
Greek Life
There is no greek life on campus, which definitely makes the drinking scene minimal. Parties at L&C are more social and intellectual rather than drunken attempts to get laid.

Joshua from Anderson, CA

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Lewis & Clark College is one of the most diverse schools in the United States, everyone fits in. The curriculum challenges even the most intelligent of students, making the transition into the real world seamless. It is a great school that will keep a student entertained, educated, and ready for the world.
Tips for prospective students
Get in and just talk to people, professors and get involved!
Academic Rigor
It's tough, but if you apply yourself the sky is the limit.
Dorm Life
Oh my goodness. so many awesome people and parties.
Food and Dining
The Bon isn't always 5-star, but it has its moments.
What to do for fun
Hang out in Portland! You're only a few miles outside of downtown, and there is a free shuttle to take you.