Academics
Located in Corvallis, Oregon, “one of the safest, smartest, and greenest college towns in the nation,” Oregon State University is a “diverse school with a strong presence in the scientific community.” The university “strives for equitable education along with a fair opportunity for everyone to get their hands dirty,” and a “unique set of classes that can only be found in the Pacific Northwest.” According to students, Oregon State “is #1 in the world for forestry and Marine Biology,” and the university is one of “only a few” to “receive all the land, sun, sea, and space grants” in the country. An emphasis on sustainability is notable, and other top-notch programs include the engineering, agriculture, food science, and public health programs. The Hatfield Marine Science Center is located about an hour from the main campus and serves as a coastal campus for full-time and part-time students. “The advisors and teachers want you to succeed,” says one student. “They are very accommodating and the staff tries to do everything they can to help you.” The school offers “great research opportunities,” “mentor programs,” “access to professors and undergraduate research opportunities,” “lab experiences/jobs,” and “networking with professors and professionals in the field.” Students also praise the administration and faculty’s “transparency,” led by a “humanitarian president.” Academic resources include “study tables, tutoring, or even emotional support such as counselors or the health clinic.” Students praise the school’s “incredible infrastructure,” which offers “research labs, peer education, outreach, ministries, athletics, and other interest groups.” There are amazing undergraduate research opportunities that any student can get involved in. Oregon State fuels passions and provides avenues to take passions further. Professors are typically “engaged in their classrooms, and are trying to think of new ways to help their students succeed, especially in the more difficult classes.”
Student Body
Students cite international diversity as a standout aspect of the Oregon State student body. “My field of study contains mostly veteran students, immigrant and first-generation students,” one student comments. “Most from places like Chili, Ecuador, or Mexico.” There is a “significant number of non-binary gender students and LGBT students.” Most are “eager to further sustainability and social justice issues.” Another student notes that the school’s “location in Northern Oregon gives us a distinct Pacific Northwest feel: the number of hydro flasks and Patagonia gear gives us away.” Students are “hardworking,” “accepting,” and “kind-hearted,” “entrepreneurial,” and “motivated and passionate learners.” A majority of students are “very likely to do a lot of scientific research, even in their first year.” Along with strong sense of “school spirit,” students boast “a pretty great party scene.”
Campus Life
“Life is good” on Oregon State’s “exceedingly beautiful campus” in “peaceful” Corvalis, a town of about 60,000. No wonder students count the school’s geography as a top strength, with “so many different ecosystems within reach: the ocean, deserts, mountains, and rainforests.” There’s a “huge research forest right outside Corvallis” that boasts “beautiful hiking trails.” Adventurers can also take weekend trips to Mary’s Peak, “which is especially fun in the snow,” or in warm weather, “take a float on the local river.” Downtown offers “fun places to shop and eat,” and the Saturday Farmer’s Market is a “huge draw.” A large population of students participate in Greek Life and athletics; among other university sponsored sports clubs, the Equestrian Dressage Team (along with many other equestrian teams) stands out as a unique offering. Students spend time outside of classes volunteering hours at the local Humane Society, rock climbing and slacklining” or “bouldering” at the “indoor rock gym ” at Dixon,” “playing volleyball,” “swimming at the recreational center,” or “bowling at the school’s bowling alley.” Fraternities and sororities “throw great socials” and “the library, MU [Memorial Union] and other public area buildings on campus are always full of students, either studying or socializing.” And if the fresh air and socializing doesn’t relieve all the stresses of college, OSU offers a wealth of wellness resources, which include “Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Health Services, and the Survivor Advocacy and Resource Center,” all which help students to “thrive.”
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