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Willamette University Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

See Willamette University reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending Willamette University. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free Willamette University reviews, or contribute your own Willamette University review if you're a current student there.

  • 6 out of 6 people found this review useful.

    Aaron from Salem, OR

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    Willamette has been a great school for me, it wasn't my first choice but I think that it has become the best place I could have landed. Willamette has a very accepting environment so the best thing you can do is just be yourself.
    Great for these types of students

    I would classify Willamette as a great place for an independent student. No one is here to hold your hand, however if you want help, Willamette is here to give it to you, you just have to look for it. However to state it simply, that the best Willamette students I know are the ones who really want to be there.

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Meryl from Sacramento, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I knew that the Willamette Professors were going to be helpful and probably more so than a bigger school but I never expected such dedicated people to the education of every student. Even in classes I think I do not care for at first, I come out realizing I have learned so much and not just text book memorization. I feel able to converse on many topics and apply class subject matter to everyday life.
    Am enjoying being here

    Willamette was hands down the most comfortable school I visited. I would say that all the smiles I see walking around campus is evidence that others feel the same way. This is a school where there is something for everyone and if there is something a student wanted to try for the first time or get back into after a few years, Willamette will offer the opportunity. It is like a fairytale: go after your dreams and you will come across resources to assist you.
    Bang for the buck

    Willamette is definitely an expensive school as far as tuition but they are very good about giving scholarships for academics and financial need. The education and personal time and attention I am receiving at Willamette is worth a lot more than the education at huge schools.
    Tips for prospective students

    The most important part of choosing a school is actually visiting the campus. Walk around, sit in on a class or two, and maybe even stay over night. Being there gives you a feel for whether or not you are comfortable there. Willamette has many visiting opportunities and offers over night stays for prospective students where you can stay over night with current students in their dorm room.
    Great for these types of students

    As I said before, everyone finds something to do at Willamette. Whether you are an athlete, a dancer, an artist or a musician, there will be numerous opportunities for excellence and Willamette gives everyone a chance.

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Zachery from California

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Each day at Willamette I have anywhere from two to five hours of class, at least this semester, and for each class I come out learning something new. Of course some days I learn more than others, but everyday I go to class I know that I will learn a new concept or further my mastery over another.
    Am enjoying being here

    The community at Willamette is simply amazing. I find enjoyable people everywhere I go. Friends can be found in all sorts of places, from our over 100 clubs, classes, or simply hanging out at the Bistro or in a lounge at one of the dorms.
    Bang for the buck

    Although the main drawback for coming to Willamette for me personally was money, I feel that every cent spent here is well worth it. There has not been a single moment at my time here that I have thought that I had made the wrong decision, and that, combined with my education and experiences, makes Willamette truly worthwhile.
    Tips for prospective students

    The best advice I can give to a student is to come check out the campus. Willamette has many visiting days, where there will be many prospective students as well as the experience to come at any time of the year and spend the day with a student and experience life here at Willamette.
    Great for these types of students

    Willamette is the perfect school for all students. Willamette has wonderful programs of study where someone can major in almost anything they wanted, as well as great resources from free printing, to free tutoring. If you are an academic student, the classes are challenging and rewarding, and if you struggle in school, Willamette has many resources for you to take advantage of. If you like being sociable, there is a cafe on campus as well as hundreds of clubs and activities, and there are always fun events hosted by student organizations. Overall it is a great school for any student who is willing to try.

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Sagarika from Salem, OR

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The student to professor ratio here is perfect. Everyone can get an equal amount out of the classes, and everyone can converse comfortably. The school is small enough that you will come to know a lot of people and will be able to learn along with your community.
    Am enjoying being here

    The people are great, if not a little nerdy. They're very endearing and I've made friends who I wouldn't trade for the world. There's always something to do, even if it IS in Salem.
    Bang for the buck

    It's a pricey school, and sometimes you can't get the classes you want and the food can be a little crummy. But the education is great, and there's usually a hefty financial aid package waiting for you.
    Tips for prospective students

    Rainboots, people. It's Oregon. And also, don't live in Kaneko Commons unless you really like hiking. Get on the administration's good side. Join a Jump Start Program. They get you a solid group of friends before the semester starts.
    Great for these types of students

    Studious, Like Intimate Settings. If you really like to get to know the people around you, then Willamette is the way to go.

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Crystal from Hermiston, OR

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    I went on a college visit a few days ago to this university as well as 3 others in Oregon. Out of all 4, I found WU to have the best learning environment. Small classes, personal relationships with teachers that genuinely want to help you, and serious students. Many different FREE tutoring and one-on-one help with professors. Academics are definitely important without having to be a nerd. There are students of all sorts, but the vast majority are well rounded and heavily involved.
    Will enjoy being here

    There are over 100 different clubs and activities to be a part of. The drinking/party scene isn't very strong but it's obvious it's unnecessary. The social atmosphere is of independent, unique students that are friendly and accepting. Same goes for the professors. Sure, you have to get used to the drizzling rain but remember the summers are beautiful! Year round, the campus is gorgeous.
    Bang for the buck

    Yes, it is a private school. Yes, that means it's going to be more expensive. But this school is so worth it. They offer a lot of financial aid. This is not an impossible school, you just have to prove you deserve to be there.
    Tips for prospective students

    They have denied 4.0 students that are not involved in extra curricular activities but have accepted 3.8 students who volunteer regularly, show leadership, take rigorous AP classes, etc etc. They rather take a student that shows involvement and has something to offer to the school and community instead of someone that doesn't do anything with their time outside of school. So get busy! Be a part of something! Sports, jobs, volunteer, etc. Anything is better than nothing in this schools case.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Andres O. from Pleasanton, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Academic Rigor

    the secret is upper division courses. as soon as you get past the 100 level courses all the courses are amazing. the professors are always excellent, but the pace will be a lot slower in lower division classes.
    Am enjoying being here

    The people are amazing, the school is perfect, couldn't be happier.
    Bang for the buck

    it cost the same for me to attend wu as it would for a uc, but the quality of the education, and resources available are much higher.
    Tips for prospective students

    if willamette is a school you are strongly interested in, then do the work up front. visit if you can, try to talk to a professor and take a tour, schedule an interview with an admission officer. even if you think you can't afford, try, things tend to work out for those who work hard.
    Great for these types of students

    independent, pro-active, ambitious, adventurous, motivated.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Xavier from Stockton, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I learned a lot in my short time at this school and I can tell because my essay writing skills have improved, critical thinking skills have greatly improved, plus people skills have improved by the social atmosphere.
    Am enjoying being here

    Like most colleges you go to your first semester you will consider transferring just because you feel like it is not the right fit. If you decide to stick it out you will be rewarded especially if you play sports because you will have a group of people that care about you. I really enjoy this school and am happy I decided to go.
    Bang for the buck

    I am not going to lie this school is really expensive compared to a state school but when you go here you are not just a number in a class but the professors actually know and recognize you and that could be a bad or a good thing depending on your point of view.
    Tips for prospective students

    If you a prospective student make sure that you shed off that senior mentality that you can from your last school and get ready to work because these classes are hard and you will need to study hard if you want to succeed. You should take advantage of all the opportunities and especially the professors so you can do well at this school.
    Great for these types of students

    This school is great for students that want to go to a school with a student to professor ratio. Their are many clubs you can join and plus you can start your own club and get start up money from the school.

  • Julia from Kaneohe, HI

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Willamette University is a great liberal arts school located in Salem, Oregon. It's small student body provides for personal student to teacher relationships and creates a welcoming tight-knit community. It provides students with unlimited resources to assist students on their road to success.
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't be afraid to consult older students on what classes to take. Everyone is friendly so don't hesitate to ask. Always go in for help and see your professors, do not wait until the last minute. Make use of all the resources that Willamette has to offer they are all great and are of very much help.
    Academic Rigor

    It's definitely an academically rigorous school but don't let that scare you away. Once again there are a lot of resources to help you do well and teachers are willing to help! You will be doing a lot of work but it is all doable.
    Dorm Life

    Dorm life is great, the residence life department does a great job of hiring skillful community mentors that organize hall activities and events. If you have any concerns they are very approachable and willing to help.
    Food and Dining

    Breakfast and Lunch are very good and there are always a lot of great choices. Dinner is all you can eat and although it may not be great every night for the most part it is fairly decent and there is almost always pizza as a back up.
    What to do for fun

    There are a lot of fun places to hang out on campus such as by the Mill Stream and the Bistro ( on campus coffee shop run by students). Willamette's campus is only a few minutes away from downtown where there are a lot of great places to eat and shop. The mall is also nearby and is a nice place to hang out as well. There is a movie theater not too far away. In addition to that there are two great parks, Bush park (5 min walk) and River Front park (15 min walk). The activities are endless, you won't get bored.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The Mill stream is a great place where students tend to hang out or do homework especially when the weather is nice out. During spring preview a number of students get together and run through the school which is a bit awkward but nonetheless entertaining. Freshman take part of matriculation which is a great ceremony that is unforgettable.
    Great for these types of students

    If you are fun-loving, adventurous, and a bit strange in your own way then Willamette is the place for you!
    Clubs and Activities

    Willamette has a great intramural program with lots of different sports throughout the year such as volleyball, indoor soccer, basketball, and flag football, etc.
    There are also a number of varsity sports teams.
    Greek Life

    There are three sororities on campus: Alpha Chi Omega, Pi Beta Phi, and Delta Gamma. In addition there is one fraternity on campus: Sigma Chi. All of the sororities prohibit the consumption of alcohol.
    Campus Safety

    Campus safety is constantly patrolling the area as well as Willamette watch ( students working for campus safety). They are always available, 24 hours, and are promptly show up if a student is in need of assistance.

  • Benny from Bellevue, WA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    The community at Willamette is welcoming and friendly.
    Tips for prospective students

    Take a look at large and small universities. It is one of the ways to test which environment you would fit best with.
    Academic Rigor

    The rigor of my academic load is pretty heavy. Although most of my classes are Music so I cannot rightfully judge most of the classes on campus but for the classes I have taken the overall rigor is similar to an AP class.
    Dorm Life

    Depending on which dorm you receive, you would have good/bad chances at creating a community. Some dorms overall are better at creating a social community than others based on layout, # of students, etc.
    Food and Dining

    The food here is pretty good. The dining company (Bon Appetite) is our exclusive vendor and provides a greener sustainable food option. Most of the food is great during breakfast/lunch but the dinners are typically a hit or miss.
    What to do for fun

    There are many things to do on campus with over 100 clubs and organizations. Greek life is not very prominent but there are many dances during the weekends either sponsored by the Greek organizations or the Events Board. We also have many speakers and music events going on.
    Downtown is a 10 minute walk West. There's usually things to do that you won't need to go off campus much but people go on hikes and camping trips during the weekend with the Outdoor Club.

    There's something here for everyone.

  • Sadie from Dallas, OR

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Willamette University is a great university to explore different majors as well as receive unique opportunities. The campus is beautiful and inviting. The professors are willing to help the students achieve their goals.
    Tips for prospective students

    STUDY, STUDY, STUDY!!!!
    Academic Rigor

    Courses expect more work then other schools but excellence is worth it.
    Dorm Life

    Warm and inviting rooms and great company.
    Food and Dining

    Busy and noisy not the best food.
    What to do for fun

    Explore downtown Salem. Tons of restaurants that are at a good price/

  • Alyssa from Sacramento, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    It's been ridiculous how much I have grown in the short time I have been here. I am being challenged academically as well as an individual, which is something I really wanted to experience. The professors are great, but aren't going to make learning easy on you. They want you to exhaust your options and think on your feet, but they don't hesitate to discuss whatever you are not understanding in more detail.
    Am enjoying being here

    I enjoy it greatly. There are always plenty of events happening on campus. Plus, there are also a great number of clubs, intermurals, and sports to get involved in. Everyone is very friendly and the campus is beautiful.
    Bang for the buck

    Yes, it's ridiculously expensive. Most private schools are. However, Willamette offers great financial aid. The quality of education and life here are superb, so whatever you do end up paying is well invested.
    Tips for prospective students

    Willamette is a really great liberal arts school. One that is surprisingly well underrated. Take the tour! The campus is small so it doesn't take long, but it's pretty comprehensive. You get a feel for the University right away. And a word for the wise, enjoy Goudy lunches during your visit, for the one negative is the sub par dinners Goudy tends to serve.
    Great for these types of students

    Anyone who is willing to work hard and put in a little effort to find any necessary help should be easily able to succeed. Creative thinking is highly valued, but not absolutely required.

  • Natalie from Chatsworth, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Academics here are challenging, and you are expected to give every class your best effort regardless of whether or not it's in your major. So far, the classes I have taken have all been very interesting, and there are so many different subjects from which to choose. Willamette emphasizes the liberal arts by requiring students to fulfill Modes of Inquiry (MOIs), which ensure that you take at least one class in five or six areas beyond your major.
    Am enjoying being here

    Absolutely! I chose Willamette because of its people: everyone is friendly, intelligent, and accepting. There is always plenty to do around campus, from movie nights to guest speakers to dances and other activities. There is a definite sense of community here.
    Bang for the buck

    I initially questioned whether I could attend Willamette due to its price, but I found that this university is especially generous in terms of scholarships and grants. Willamette alumni donate thousands of dollars every year to fund scholarships for current students, and the money you will have to pay from your own pocket is well worth the experience of being a student here. Classes and professors are awesome, the environment is wonderful, and there are so many great opportunities that you won't find at many other small schools.
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit, visit, visit! Come to Open House and other events for prospective students, spend a night on campus with a student host, whatever! (This is true for all colleges during the search process.) The more time you spend on a college campus getting to know the environment and the people, the better prepared you will be to decide what you want most from your college experience.
    Great for these types of students

    If I had to choose two words to describe most of the people here, they would be: scholarly and fun. People here want to learn, and I quickly lost count of the random conversations and debates that began in hallways, over dinner, and just about anywhere on campus. Willamette students also know how to use their free time; there are many outgoing, energetic people here. I wouldn't say that we are a party school (quite the opposite, really), but most of the people I know have a wide variety of interests beyond the classroom and are passionate about pursuing these things.

  • Ashlei from Pendleton, OR

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Willamette University has amazing professors who really care about their students and do their best to ensure that everyone is learning and keeping on task. If a student has a problem of some sort or is confused about the material, the professors are very willing and happy to help. They don't mind sitting down with a student and discussing whatever the student needs help with, and they respond to emails quickly in most cases. Professors are very cooperative and kind, as well as good at making the material interesting and easy to understand. Student feedback and discussion in class is also a very valuable tool that professors here employ. The workload may seem overwhelming at times, but it really helps students understand the material and causes the course to have an impact in students' minds.
    Am enjoying being here

    Willamette is a very friendly environment, and very welcoming. The students, professors, and other staff are all very open-minded. Also, there are many activities to do around campus when a student is bored, such as concerts (both classical and modern), poetry readings, talent contests, dances, etc. There are great places to hang out or study, and the resources we have are great. The food is also very good, especially at Kaneko Commons. There are many places to go and things to do near campus as well, and Portland is only about an hour away, which brings a lot of opportunity for other fun outings.
    Bang for the buck

    Willamette is a rather expensive school, but the cost is worth it, and the school gives a lot of scholarship money for those who need it. The financial aid office is also very considerate of a student's special circumstances, and the school works with an organization that allows for monthly payment plans. In the end, the school can be very affordable, and it is a great place to go to college.
    Tips for prospective students

    Apply for scholarships, and be ready to be open-minded. During the first days, be ready to get out of your comfort zone a bit to meet new people and enjoy your welcome into the Willamette community. Be prepared to take classes that are like nothing you would have expected, and just have a lot of fun learning about the Willamette environment and the people around you. It will be amazing.
    Great for these types of students

    Willamette is great for students who are dedicated and want their classes to be interesting. It is also great for people who like to meet new and interesting people and like to have a good time while getting a good education. People who want to have a great school experience should choose Willamette and bring their own spice to the community.

  • TeAnna from Newberg, OR

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

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    I sat in on a class while I was on a visit, and walked away with a lot more knowledge then I learned in high school, and this was just in one class period. I'm really excited to see what else there is to learn.
    Will enjoy being here

    Of course I'm really going to miss my family, but all the staff at this school seem so friendly. I went to lunch on campus, and there was a student eating with her professor! This usually is uncommon at other places, but already I feel welcome to the campus.
    Bang for the buck

    It's really spendy, but I got an amazing financial packet. Willamette is known for their financial aid.
    Tips for prospective students

    Definately visit, and not just once. I visited twice, and wished I went more. Life is different if you go when there is students and when there's not. I recommend doing both.

  • Miranda from Salem, OR

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Willamette is a school that the sky is the limit. If you want to learn a lot, you will. However, if you want to just skate by and get that degree, that is possible as well but that is all you will get out of it. Don't get me wrong, Willamette is hard; has a much more extensive work load and higher expectations than most. But, what you put in is what you'll get out.
    Am enjoying being here

    The campus is beautiful! Salem can be rather dull sometimes but the campus of Willamette always has something going on. The students are very involved and make an effort to have their fellow students feel as at home as possible.
    Bang for the buck

    Depending on the students financial situation and scholarship awards, the amount of money paid for each student is a widely ranged. Willamette has a lot of alumni that donate scholarship money every year, so if you go out looking for help you'll probably find it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Study hard from the beginning! Falling behind at Willamette can be the make or break of students here. Since it is such a small community, Professors get to know each student really early, and making a bad impression first semester can lead to a difficult 4-year period.
    Great for these types of students

    Studious, Independent, Diverse oriented, Active, Open-minded.

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