Western Washington University (WWU) is a public university located in Bellingham, Washington. Founded in 1893, WWU is one of the oldest universities in the state of Washington. It is a medium-sized university with a total enrollment of approximately 16,000 students, including about 14,000 undergraduates and 2,000 graduate students. In this essay, we will discuss the pros and cons of Western Washington University.
Pros:
- Location: Western Washington University is located in Bellingham, which is a beautiful coastal city surrounded by mountains, forests, and waterways. The campus is situated on a hill overlooking Bellingham Bay, and students have access to a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, kayaking, and sailing.
- Academics: Western Washington University is known for its strong academic programs, especially in the fields of education, environmental sciences, psychology, and business. The university offers more than 160 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, and has a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1, which allows for more personalized attention from professors.
- Diversity: Western Washington University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive campus community. The university has a number of programs and initiatives in place to promote diversity, including a multicultural center, LGBTQ+ resource center, and a center for women and gender equity.
- Sustainability: Western Washington University is a leader in sustainability and environmental stewardship. The university has implemented a number of sustainability initiatives, including a campus-wide recycling program, a bike share program, and LEED-certified buildings.
- Student life: Western Washington University has a vibrant student life, with more than 200 student clubs and organizations. The university also has a strong athletics program, with 15 NCAA Division II sports teams.
Cons:
- Cost: Western Washington University is a public university, but it can be relatively expensive for in-state and out-of-state students. In-state tuition and fees for the 2022-2023 academic year are $8,164 per year, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $24,308 per year.
- Location: While the location of Western Washington University can be a pro, it can also be a con. Bellingham is a relatively small city, and some students may find that there are limited entertainment and dining options.
- Housing: Western Washington University requires freshmen and sophomore students to live on campus, but housing can be expensive and difficult to secure. Some students may find that they are placed in less-desirable housing options.
- Weather: The weather in Bellingham can be a challenge for some students. The city is located in a temperate rainforest, and it can be rainy and overcast for much of the year. This can be difficult for students who are used to more sunshine and warm weather.
- Limited graduate programs: While Western Washington University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs, the university has a relatively limited selection of graduate programs. Some students may find that they are unable to find a graduate program that meets their needs.
Conclusion:
Overall, Western Washington University is a strong academic institution with a number of pros and cons. The university is known for its beautiful location, strong academics, commitment to diversity and sustainability, and vibrant student life. However, students should be aware of the relatively high cost of attendance, limited housing options, and potentially challenging weather. Despite these challenges, many students have found Western Washington University to be a rewarding and fulfilling place to pursue their academic and personal goals.