Whitworth University

Whitworth has a wonderful community, built on a commitment to academic and life success for each student. In every way the university is organized, from available student assistance services to dorm life, is designed to streamline a positive experience at Whitworth. It is evident that the school is incredibly intentional about giving students every chance to succeed. They could improve the food options and quality some, but other than that I have had an absolutely lovely experience here.

Other than the food occasionally, I have no complaints. For the most part, the food is tasty, but the healthy options don’t tend to be of my personal taste, and it can be hard to manage a balanced diet. I’m not sure how different that is than at other schools.

Small class sizes and building relationships with professors and staff.

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The professors at Whitworth are truly incredible. They genuinely care about you and your future. I appreciate how the university wants to be more inclusive and diverse, but I think they could be better at recognizing and supporting queer students. The faculty and housing staff are amazing, but the administration and campus as a whole could definitely improve. There is a Pride Club and a Pride display in the counseling center, but I think Whitworth has room to improve. Students can be hit or miss on whether they're queer-affirming, but that's usually how it is anywhere. I did find my partner here though, and there are lots of supportive allies and other queer people here.

If you have food allergies, always double-check what you're getting in the dining hall. Sometimes the menu boards are mislabeled (there is an allergen-friendly self-serve station though). Whitworth isn't close to downtown, so you'll probably have to take the bus or drive to get places (there are parks, neighborhoods, coffee shops, a frozen yogurt place, and grocery stores within walking distance if you need, but not like you'd find in downtown). Whitworth has some awesome outdoor programs (pre-orientation backpacking trip) and 40 acres of undeveloped land that acts as a sort of park connected to campus (we call it the Back 40). You'll see the same people everywhere, but there are still lots of different people here (small but not too small). The dorms are basic dorms-usable for sure, but not going to wow you. Well-lit at night and security is always willing to walk you back to your car/dorm/bus stop in the dark.

My favorite part is the strong support from professors. My academic advisor has walked me through every step of my four-year plan and ensured my success as a student. Additionally, I am very close to other professors in my department and they have a vested interest in my personal and professional life. If you look for it, it's not that hard to find a strong community on campus.

The school is lacking in racial and LGBTQ diversity. Many students from underrepresented backgrounds struggle to find their place on campus because they do not have other people from their communities present. There are programs on campus to help combat this, but having more diversity on campus would be a big help.

I love the professors and the relationships they build with you in order to better your education. You have to be your own advocate, but they will help you in any way they can as long as you use your resources. The overall vibe on campus is really great and when it is warm one of the best things to do on campus is Hang-out outside with your friends either just chilling or maybe hammocking or even studying on the grass. Food can use some work, but overall it is good.

We have a term called "Whitworth Nice" which is that everyone is nice and it can be very surface level. One day you're hanging out with someone just talking about school in general... then the next week you're up talking about where we go after death until 2 am. There is not a lot of in-between and while everyone seems like your friend in general, you need to find your own people who aren't just the "Whitworth Nice". This can be hard, especially since most groups and friendships are formed within the first few weeks of classes. One can feel like they're on the outside if they don't form friendships instantly... this can be very mentally draining trying to find out who is and who is not a friend.