Lewis & Clark College is a private liberal arts college located in Portland, Oregon. It was founded in 1867 and offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. As with any institution, Lewis & Clark College has its pros and cons. In this essay, we will explore some of the advantages and disadvantages of attending this institution.
Pros:
- Strong academic programs: Lewis & Clark College is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in the fields of environmental studies, international affairs, and law. The school also offers a diverse range of majors and minors, giving students the opportunity to explore a variety of subjects.
- Location: The college is located in a beautiful part of Portland, Oregon. The campus is situated on a wooded hill overlooking the city, providing stunning views of the surrounding area. Additionally, the city of Portland itself is a vibrant and progressive place, with a thriving arts and culture scene, as well as plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
- Small class sizes: Lewis & Clark College is a small institution, with a total enrollment of just over 3,000 students. This means that classes are generally small, with a low student-to-faculty ratio. This allows for more personalized attention from professors and a more collaborative and engaging classroom environment.
- Study abroad opportunities: The college has a strong commitment to global education and offers a wide range of study abroad opportunities for students. Programs are available in countries all over the world, and students can choose from semester-long programs, summer programs, or short-term programs during winter or spring break.
- Sustainability: Lewis & Clark College is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The campus has a number of green initiatives in place, including a solar panel array, a food waste reduction program, and a bike-sharing program. Additionally, the college has a strong focus on environmental studies, making it an ideal choice for students interested in environmental issues.
Cons:
- Cost: Lewis & Clark College is a private institution, and as such, tuition and fees are generally higher than at public universities. While the college does offer financial aid to eligible students, the cost of attendance may still be prohibitive for some.
- Isolation: While the campus is beautiful and serene, it is also somewhat isolated from the rest of Portland. This can make it difficult for students to explore the city and take advantage of its many cultural offerings. Additionally, the college’s location on a hill can make it challenging to navigate on foot.
- Lack of diversity: While Lewis & Clark College is committed to diversity and inclusion, the student body is still predominantly white and upper-middle-class. This can make it difficult for students from marginalized communities to feel fully included and represented on campus.
- Limited graduate programs: While Lewis & Clark College offers a number of strong undergraduate programs, its graduate offerings are somewhat limited. This may be a drawback for students who are interested in pursuing advanced degrees in certain fields.
- Party scene: While Lewis & Clark College is a small school, it still has a party scene that can be overwhelming for some students. Alcohol and drug use can be prevalent, particularly on weekends, and some students may find this environment difficult to navigate.
Conclusion:
Overall, Lewis & Clark College is a strong choice for students who are looking for a small, liberal arts college with a strong focus on academics and sustainability. The school’s commitment to global education and study abroad opportunities make it an ideal choice for students who are interested in exploring other cultures and gaining a global perspective. However, the cost of attendance and limited diversity on campus may be drawbacks for some students. Ultimately, it is up to each individual student to decide whether Lewis & Clark College is the right fit for them.