The Evergreen State College
Olympia, WA, USA

Reviews

The Evergreen State College

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The Evergreen State College has a variety of fun, unique, and engaging classes. As a freshman, I have only enrolled in one course for the entire year. This class, however, has really opened my eyes to many possibilities and I have learned more in a few months than I have for many years.
Am enjoying being here
Not only are the classes here amazing, the atmosphere of the campus and the people are too. Everyone here is so nice and unique. Acceptance is a big deal here at Evergreen and it is really amazing to see all the differences that people have and how everyone gets along, which is a lot different than how it was in high school.
Bang for the buck
This college is totally worth your time and your money. With the diverse and cultural atmosphere and amazing courses to take, what you learn here at Evergreen will definitely last a lifetime.
Tips for prospective students
Anyone contemplating on attending this college is definitely recommended. The memories, friends, and education you receive is well worth it.
Great for these types of students
Evergreen is very accepting to any person wanting to pursue their dreams. No matter what race, religion, or gender you are, no one here on campus is judgmental. This college offers many classes in the arts, teaching, and sciences, so anyone wanting to pursue their career in these fields should definitely check out Evergreen.

Emerald Engrum from Burien, WA

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
One of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. I've learned about different types of people, and the importance of community. In my first class during fall quarter, my teacher gave us a book to read, showed us a film she made in relation to the book, and then we visited the actual place that it was based on. With evergreen, you learn through actions and words. I've learned that people often misuse both to gain power.
Am enjoying being here
I have never met more open people in my life! These people accept me for who I am ! The atmosphere of olympia is completely relaxed and comfortable
Bang for the buck
Due to the economy, the prices of education have risen, but, evergreen is worth way more than they make you pay for. The food could be better, but the education and environment definitely makes up for it.
Tips for prospective students
Visit as many schools as possible, even the ones you think you might not like.
Make sure You are literally IN LOVE with the school before commiting to it.
Don't be scared to take risks; you might find out a great talent or find a great friend!
See who lives on your floor; they might be really nice! Also just for safety precautions, that way you know who lives in your building and who doesn't.
dont be afraid to change, when you are at any age in your life, an opinion might drastically shift into something more positive.
dont let anyone push you around or pressure you into anything that you dont like; if they do, then they are not a good friend and you probably dont want them as a friend.
Great for these types of students
open minded
ethical
peaceful
loving
leaders
people that want to make positive changes in the world.
people that want to be judged by their character, and not by a number.

matthew

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
People are nice here. It rains a lot. School is as easy or as challenging as you want it to be.
Tips for prospective students
If you're coming to this school I would suggest you have a general, if not good idea of what you want to get out of this school. Similar to going to any school, if you don't have an idea of your end goal it will mostly be a waste of time. The difference between this school and most, is that you have a wide range of really great resources to use and people that want to help you.
Academic Rigor
Similar to what I said above, your education here is highly dependent on your dedication. In general there are easy and more difficult classes, but if you're looking to just stroll through so you can a degree in the end you're going to have a bad time.
Dorm Life
I haven't lived in the dorms. I'm a transfer student, so I didn't have to. I have seen a bit of what it's like comparable I'm sure it's good, but I don't think anyone really wants to live in the dorms, unless you're into that.
Food and Dining
There is not a lot of choice on campus and it's basically in the middle of the woods, so eating out isn't much of an option unless you have a car and some time to spare. On campus there is one company in charge of food (their contract is expiring soon.) There is also the Flaming Eggplant on campus, which is a student run restaurant. It's decent, not sure what you expect from students. I eat there anyways because I'd rather support them than Aardvark(contracted food company).
What to do for fun
Olympia is awesome and so is the surrounding area. If you're into hiking and adventuring you're in the right place. It's also an awesome place for music. Plus Olympia isn't too far of a drive from both Seattle and Portland, both awesome places.
Bang for the buck
Tuition here is fairly reasonable, super reasonable if you're a resident. It depends on how much you put in to get out though.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Check out the Flaming Eggplant on the third floor of the CAB.
Great for these types of students
Pretty much anyone really, it's that diverse. I don't know where it has the most strengths. I know it's big on media, computer sciences, other sciences like biology/geology/etc, art/design, literature, it goes on.

Clubs and Activities
There are a bunch of clubs doing cool stuff, and if there isn't just make one. It's pretty easy.
Greek Life
I assume this is talking about fraternities and that awful stuff. As far as I know, there isn't any of that crap going on.
Campus Safety
The police are nice and stuff and we have emergency posts everywhere. Also the fire station is right down the street.

Suzanne from Burlington, WA

accepted here and planning to attend soon
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Evergreen pushes students beyond just learning to know and into learning to understand and apply their knowledge. Because it is a state college, Evergreen State is a great value for your money. If location is what you're looking for, Evergreen's campus is located in beautiful Western Washington and has often been mistaken for a national forest.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you are ready to be a self-directed learner because it is an invaluable skill that will help you excel in classes regardless of your major. Oh, and bring a bike.
Academic Rigor
Evergreen pushes you beyond memory and into application. Even though there are no grades, that does not mean that a lot will not be asked of you in completing your coursework.
Dorm Life
Average dorm life from what I've experienced (though I haven't experienced a lot of it)
Food and Dining
The cafeteria has lots of options for people of all tastes and diets. The selection of hot food seemed to be a lot more exciting than most cafeterias I've visited.
What to do for fun
Take a bike into town, visit the FABULOUS gym, take a walk across the college beach (oh yeah, we have a beach too), join one of the many clubs on campus, and explore the heavily-wooded campus.
Bang for the buck
Because it is a state college, tuition is low but they education rises above and beyond what I would expect at the popular universities in the area.
Great for these types of students
Self directed learners looking for a new and deeper understanding of what they would like to study and people who enjoy hands-on learning.
Clubs and Activities
The college is very club-friendly and there are a large number of diverse clubs to join on campus.
Greek Life
No greek life.

Krystal from Honolulu, HI

accepted here and planning to attend soon
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
The classes are so diverse and you will learn so many things in such a short amount of time. The ability to actually go in depth is the aspect I love most about Evergreen.
Will enjoy being here
There are so many activities you can participate while you are at Evergreen. This is the college campus that has that extra touch of feeling like your at home.
Bang for the buck
Make sure to take advantage of the activities that Evergreen offers you and learn to appreciate the little things. There are so many things you can do on or off campus it's your pick.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you love this school and you are willing to commit to it.
Great for these types of students
Eco-Enthusiasts, Outdoorsy People, Gamers, Explorers, Hipsters, and just people willing to have a great time at Evergreen

Andrea from Lacey, WA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Evergreen is a. environmentally friendly school. Evergreen accepts everyone for who they are, it is a school that you don't have to pretend to be someone your not. Evergreen is a liberal arts school that prides it's self on diversity and equality.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you visit campus for a tour. The campus can be very confusing if you don't know where you are going.
Academic Rigor
This a very hands-off kind of school, it is a school that allows you to choose your own path versus most non-liberal colleges that have a path already designed for you. But do keep in mind that in order to meet the requirements, you need to make sure to keep on top of the work you choose or you may find yourself struggling. If you choose to be in class, the work load can get very heavy at times but the professors are great at helping you get through it.
Dorm Life
Heard it was fine. I live off campus
Food and Dining
There is a variety of different cuisine to choose from.
Bang for the buck
Very well priced compared to other colleges near by.
Campus Safety
I feel safe because I always see security guards around campus.

Marcella from Graham, WA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
You can't summarize this college in just three sentences. This school is unlike any traditional style college; to quote it's website: its new and different, dynamic and relevant. The best things about this school; there are no grades, all classes are interdisciplinary, its student-centered, and the sense of unity and collaboration is unmistakable.
Tips for prospective students
Be open-minded and allow yourself to fully embrace in all this school has to offer.
Academic Rigor
This is really up to you. You receive the amount of credit you earn. Put in half the effort earn half the credit.
Dorm Life
Personally never lived on campus but the location alone is full of possibilities. I've never heard a foul word about life in the dorms.
Food and Dining
The Flaming Eggplant Cafe is a must in dining experiences. It is student-run uses organic locally grown food with seasonal inspired dishes with several vegetarian and vegan options.
What to do for fun
Countless clubs and groups to get involved in. 1,000 acres of forest accompanied by ocean shoreline and countless activities available for pretty much anything you can imagine.
Great for these types of students
Students who are looking for a progressive style approach to learning.
Students who value the benefits of collaborative learning and innovative teaching.
Clubs and Activities
Too many to count, and if you can't find it you can create one.
Campus Safety
Never felt unsafe nor heard of any dangerous happenings on campus.

Ursula from Olympia, WA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Evergreen is a unique educational experience. Each student is responsible for their own education in a meaningful way; you can't get by just taking notes and passing tests here. Come here if you want your perspective on life challenged and ultimately changed.
Tips for prospective students
Do your research! Make sure this is the type of education you are looking for, as it is not your average university. You don't want to waste your time and money if you're looking for something more traditional.
Academic Rigor
Depending on the professors, you can sail your way to an easy degree or trudge your way through heaps of hard work. The sciences at Evergreen are serious business.
What to do for fun
The buses are free with your student ID; explore Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater!
Great for these types of students
Independent, self-motivated, non-traditional.

Olygirl

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I love attending The Evergreen State College because of the top quality education, student-supportive learning environment, and tailoring of educational experience based on my individual needs. Professors get to know you and celebrate your growth each quarter with an in-depth evaluation. The campus is also environmentally friendly, green and beautiful!
Tips for prospective students
Take a tour of the campus and make an appointment with an advisor to discuss your needs. If you are someone who enjoys professor feedback and is more of a collaborative learner, this may be the institution for you!
Academic Rigor
Challenging, but rewarding. You will read a lot, critically analyze and discuss material, and explore many different angles on subjects.
Food and Dining
Excellent food options at decent prices. Lots of organic, local, and vegan choices.
What to do for fun
Tons of cultural activities! There are also unique and fun student groups for just about any interest. Olympia is also an artsy, ecclectic town full of excellent restaurants and cultural activities.
Bang for the buck
Tuition rates are reasonable in comparison with other universities. Top level education at excellent rates.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Unusual? The cool thing is Evergreen celebrates the unusual. There is no such thing as normal... ;-)
Great for these types of students
Unique, reflective, self-motivated, environmentally conscious, culturally aware.
Campus Safety
Real police officers on campus 24/7.

David from Olympia, WA

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
It is a fantastic liberal arts college. It has great options for self motivated individuals. It is a great place for finding out what you want to do in life.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you know that you want to go here, this school is not for everyone. It is great for people who are willing to take chances as well as people who are willing to find out new things.
Academic Rigor
Very rigorous but not obscenely difficult. The rigor depends on you.
Dorm Life
Never lived there, heard it was OK.
Food and Dining
Great student run cafe, main food service is awful.
What to do for fun
Dance, go to the woods or the beach, go to a show, hang out with friends, or go for a bike ride. It's a very active place for active people.
Bang for the buck
Very good value for the cost. Evergreen is very cheap for a state school.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
There is a massive forest behind the campus and a beach front.
Great for these types of students
Self motivated individuals. The people who don't really fit at other schools. The individuals who are working towards establishing their sense of identity among equals. Those who don't like being reduced to a grade or a number.
Clubs and Activities
You can make up whatever you want or you can join a club. If you like to dance, it is pretty great, we got a dance collective.
Greek Life
Nope.
Campus Safety
Lots of awareness on campus and a ton of accountability. However, this leads to a heightened awareness of the nature of our culture of rape, so you can't ignore how bad things are on average. This is not a negative.
There is a campus security force but due to the nature of a security apparatus it is hard to trust them with much.