University of Puget Sound

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Students Say - Academics
Set "in the shadows of the Cascades" and just down the road from Washington state's Commencement Bay, the University of Puget Sound "offers a strong (and getting stronger) liberal arts education." A junior explains, "We are a very student-centered school," which means that teaching is top priority for this highly qualified faculty. Not only are professors "intelligent, well versed, [and] articulate," they're also concerned about the well-being of their students. "Many professors want to have conversations about what is going on in your life," writes a senior. "They make this school." So does the strong allotment of academic offerings. Students point to the Asian studies, biology, international political economy, and music offerings as the crème de la crème. You won't find the standard "huge lecture classes" at Puget Sound; "Even intro-level lectures have maybe 30 people in them." Despite the friendly atmosphere in class, professors tend to set high expectations for their students. "Coasting by on natural ability doesn't work anymore," warns a senior. Opinions of the administration vary, but most find it to be "caring and supportive of the students. If you have an idea, they say go for it." Students are hoping the new president of the university will help put UPS on the map. As a psychology major puts it, "The university is academically strong, but needs to be recognized for that across the country, not just in the Pacific Northwest."

Students Say - Campus Life
Whether you're a city slicker or a rugged outdoorsman, Puget Sound's location ensures you'll find something to satisfy your interests. Seattle is a short drive away and has everything from pro sports teams to world-class art exhibits. With beaches, the Puget Sound, the Cascades, and the Olympic Rain Forest all nearby, outdoor enthusiasts are never at a loss for adventure. "Outdoor interests are really popular, [including] ultimate Frisbee, soccer, biking, and hiking." "Athletics are huge," too, and with 21 varsity teams, 14 intramural sports, and three club sports, athletes have plenty of opportunities to flex their muscles. Sports aside, "there are tons of activities (presentations, volunteer opportunities, meetings, movies, talks, concerts, and clubs) every night of the week." In total, Puget Sound offers about 100 student clubs, and "most people are involved in a ton of groups." When they're not involved in parties, that is. "There are always plenty [parties] going on, either at Greek houses or in other nearby campus houses." But beware, warns an undergrad: "The administration can have a Gestapo-esque feel when it comes to parties and drinking on campus." Nonetheless, some students line up at the keg, while others fill the seats for the popular "one-dollar movies" on campus. Regardless of what you're doing, "If you're not doing anything in the evening, you're either lazy or antisocial...or dead."

Students Say - Student Body
There's no doubt liberalism rules the roost here, which causes one junior to note that "the least accepted student organization is, ironically, the Republican majority." But political differences-or any differences, for that matter-don't cause irreparable rifts in this student body. According to a sophomore, "Everyone gets along extremely well, no matter what gender, religion, race, ethnicity, [or] social class. Puget Sound has a great atmosphere that I sincerely appreciate." Another classmate adds, "Overall, students are accepting and curious about other beliefs. And students here are open-minded." They're open-hearted, as well as many students reported participating in community service.

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