Amanda specializes in ACT tutoring and SAT tutoring, among other subjects. She is studying applied mathematics at Seattle University. Interested in attending Seattle University? Check out her college experience review below:
Describe the campus setting and transportation options.
Amanda: Seattle University is located in near downtown Seattle. The University is well integrated into the city life around it, but manages to keep campus feeling like it's own separate area for students. Most freshman and sophomore students live on campus and get around campus by walking and biking, then use the bus system for activities off campus. Students who live off campus, such as myself, tend to use the bus system, although some do commute via car. No matter what mode of transportation, the campus and its location is one that not only feels safe, but is very safe.
How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants?
Amanda: Professors are available during their scheduled office hours every week, which is a helpful time to clarify material and receive advice on work. Academic advisers have walk in hours every week, but scheduled appointments can also be made a few days in advance.
How would you describe the dorm life—rooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students?
Amanda: From what I know about dorm life, it's a great option for first and second year students. The rooms are equipped with two twin beds, two desks, two wardrobes, a mini fridge, a microwave, a sink, a mirror, and shelf space. Windows are above the desks, which provide quite a bit of natural light and help to cool dorms. Communal bathrooms are down the hall, but the sink in each dorm allows for morning and night bathroom routines to be more personal.
There are cafés and dining spaces located in some of the buildings. This makes it convenient and easy to study over lunch or grab a quick coffee and muffin before class.
There are communal areas to hangout or study with anyone. Living in a dorm allows for constant socialization opportunities, between living with someone and being around dozens of other people. Hearing about activities that are going on on campus are inevitable when living in a dorm. The opportunities seem endless for making friends and spending time with them.
Which majors/programs are best represented and supported?
Amanda: I am studying Mathematics because I've always had a passion for the subject and can picture myself in a career doing such. Seattle University has two buildings for the school of Science & Engineering, which allows students in math and science majors to interact. Each student also gets assigned to a learning community, which is an area and group of people who are in similar majors. This creates another environment that promotes studying individually and in a group, with access to tutors.
How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life?
Amanda: During orientation, we were separated into different groupings a few times. I was able to meet people that were also living off campus, people with similar majors, people with very different majors, and people with similar hobbies. The setup of orientation forced us to mingle with other students, which led to a few friends for me. With common grounds comes friendship. Seattle University does not have a Greek life.
How helpful is the Career Center and other student support services?
Amanda: The Career Center helps students to receive help in applying and maintaining jobs and careers. On campus job opportunities are available, as well as internships with nearby companies. There are resources that will help students perfect résumés and prepare for interviews. Reputable companies attend the yearly job fair to recruit graduating students as well as undergraduates for internships.
How are the various study areas such as libraries, the student union, and dorm lounges? Are they over-crowded, easily available, spacious?
Amanda: Study areas, such as the learning communities, tutoring labs, library, and office hours are easily available and are not often overcrowded.
Describe the surrounding town.
Amanda: Students at Seattle University often rent equipment from the on campus gym and go kayaking, hiking, etc. Religious retreats are also available for students to attend. People in Seattle are very outdoorsy and adventurous, and Seattle University's students are no different. Students occasionally venture out to the city and downtown for concerts and sports games, but mainly stay on campus due to their busy daily and school life.
How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes?
Amanda: The student body is tight-knit at around 4,000 students. Classes are also intimate at around 20 students. Lecture classes of 100 students do not exist. Students and professors are able to interact more personally in smaller class sizes.
Check out Amanda’s tutoring profile.
The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.
