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Whitman College offers a "genuine connection" between students and faculty, along with an education that is very strong across the board." In part, that's because it is said to be very "easy to take classes in lots of different areas," with an emphasis on there being "good research opportunities (especially in sciences like chemistry, biology, [and] physics)." It's also reported that coursework is "more focused on theory than practical application," which is generally considered a positive. Perhaps that's because the school offers "so much support academically, socially, [and] financially." A big part of that support stems from how "professors are always there for you and show that they care and want to help you succeed." Teachers are described as "incredibly accessible and happy to work with students on an individual level. I've had professors who let me add texts to their syllabuses, let me interpret assignment descriptions generously, and I even know students who have designed entire courses as part of an independent study." The takeaway is "positively challenging," with one student observing that thanks to the school's urging, "I've accomplished things I never knew I could have."

Whitman undergrads appreciate that they're part of a "tight-knit" student body, one that tends to be more "collaborative than competitive." Many attribute this to the "small campus size," which certainly encourages students "to be very close" and only very occasionally "cliquey, for lack of a better term." Students bond over being "intellectual and able to have deep conversations" and appreciate that their peers are "interested in learning both in and out of the classroom," or as one puts it: "not just in college for the degree." Demographically, students suggest that it's "not super diverse racially or politically," but while it leans toward a mix of "liberal," "very white," and "wealthy," students acknowledge there's been a larger range "over the years in terms of racial diversity" and has a "large international student body." Students quickly strike up commonalities over a love of the outdoors or their creative efforts: "My peers are very friendly and warm. We usually see each other on campus and say hello and chat for a couple of minutes." When it comes down to it, "there is a specific kind of kid that chooses Whitman. One that uses what they know for good."

Whitman students prioritize their academics, but when they're ready to close their books, there's plenty to enjoy: "People really like on-campus events. Winter balls, film screenings, contra dances, crafts fairs; there's a lot to do." Students also eagerly participate in the college's 100+ clubs. For example, "the radio station is fairly popular, a lot of people do rec sports (ultimate frisbee [and] frolf [frisbee golf] especially)." More importantly, "clubs are not super competitive to get into, which leaves willing students a lot more opportunities to get involved outside the classroom," regardless of the topic, such as one student who volunteers that, "My friend and I founded the Whitman Students Dracula Club." For those seeking to give back to the community, strong volunteering opportunities are mentioned at local elementary schools, food distribution networks, and the nearby OddFellows elderly care facility. It's also easy for students to enjoy the surrounding area. Another undergrad explains, "In my free time, I love to bike, walk around Pioneer Park and Mill Creek and the surrounding neighborhoods. The downtown is really cute and I will go walk around the shops." In general, "outdoor activities are super popular," but the consensus is that "if you like it, there is a place for you at Whitman for it."

Whitman’s Student Engagement Center provides a number of services to help students prepare for life after college. It offers traditional resources like job and internship search tools, career counseling, help with resumes and cover letters, and career fairs. The school also organizes “Whitman Hubs” in several cities to provide students and alumni with professional networking opportunities. The SEC sponsors special events and programs geared towards students interested in entrepreneurship and community service. Many students praise the career resources that the school offers, and of Whitman alumni visiting PayScale.com, 57 percent report that they derive meaning from their jobs.