Central Washington University Reviews

Paulina

from Yakima, WA

Current student

What tips can you share with prospective students?

Tips I would share would be to try to make friends and meet new people. Networking is important as well as having at least a trusted person to talk to when you are feeling down. The school is in a more rural area so it is hard to make connections with the bigger companies, so having a larger network of at least acquaintances is helpful.

How would you describe the dorm life at this school?

Dorms are very close to campus and accessible. A little pricy, but if you can afford them I recommend! Especially Kamola, Wendell, Dugmore, and the newer dorms. Quigley, Davies, and dorms in that area are not as nice.

How would you describe the food and dining options?

Honestly, I do not use my meal plan as much, due to dietary reasons since I try to look out for my health and eat more whole foods. But, If you want something healthier, I recommend the fresh bar or Holmes dinning. You can customize and make at least something healthier to your liking. If you have allergies, they do a decent job at working around that and have several options.

Katherina from Tacoma, WA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	The profs here are truly amazing and very understandable. They are very approachable and ready to help you study and learn. Also a wide variety of classes and foriegn languages you can choose from so make sure to keep an open mind!
Am enjoying being here	There is a great amount of activities to do here and also the SURC is full of a lot of campus activities. If you don't want to even leave your dorm one day, thats fine because in the lounge there is usually something fun to do also :)
Bang for the buck	Tuition just got raised 15%, but it is still a very inexpensive school to go to. Otherwise, I think everything that is offered here should be worth way more than it is, but I love the low prices :)
Tips for prospective students	Make sure to keep a lot of options open for what you want to do because there are a variety of things to do here and you might find yourself changing majors/minors a lot!
Great for these types of students	Any type of student can get along here very well because of the great diversity here. It is a bit of a small town, so if you can't live without a mall near you than maybe consider somewhere else.

Austin from Henderson, NV

a current student here

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	Central Washington University has given me the most welcoming experience in my life. The school has handled all my problems with sincerely and professionally. I actively encourage people from all walks of life to become a Wild Cat
Tips for prospective students	This school is more than just a learning institute. if you just make small talk with anybody working there, they can help you with any problem you need. all you need to do is ask. and if you don't know what problems you have, there is somebody that can help you with that too. whether it is from grades to personal stuff. there is always a friend right around the corner
Academic Rigor	The classes are fully self contained. you can just take a single course on any of the topics and get a pretty good grasp on the subject. and the tuition for all the classes are the same no matter how many you take. so you can take a large amount of classes per quarter if you wanted. or if you have a only a few harder classes to focus on. The professors are all willing to help. they all have open hours and have been welcome to one on one help. especially if you get caught behind in some areas.
Dorm Life	I wouldn't trade my dorm family for anything. we have bonded closer in the short time than I have with anybody. The Resident hall advisors are all well trained students and understand what living there is like. but will also lay down the law when it is needed. they put on events for each dorm regularly and those are always a blast to attend. you will quickly make friends if you want to. the dorms also have full staffed maintenance and cleaning. they keep the dorms in good shape.
Food and Dining	My best advice is to get the food plan. even if you decide to live off campus. the food at the SURC is amazing and diverse. they have everything from old fashion burgers and fries to exotic stuff like sushi and Italian pasta. they have a pizza place, a Mexican food place, the pasta place, a dessert corner (ice cream is to die for), and a sandwich place. then next too all that is the huge buffe that has something diferent everynight. and all of this is in the same building right in the middle of campus. they have resturaunts all over campus too if you just want to walk across the street from your class or dorm. 10 out of 10
What to do for fun	The obvious stuff is around like a movie theater or the comic shop. but there is also regular events. we bring bands and celebrities on campus often. we have a club for everything you could imagine. then we have things like the huge outdoor obstacle course and the rock the rock climbing wall. you can always find stuff to do whenever your bored. just look at one of the bulletin boards
Bang for the buck	This place has become my home in such a short time. I am so lucky that I was able to come to such a welcoming community. and that is worth all the money in the world to me. if your looking for a place to be happy, this is where you should choose. because everything about this central makes you wish you came sooner
Campus Safety	I was actually scared for my safety leaving my familiar home. but then I I got here and I feel safer than ever before. the police have a visible presence and are friendly. they have the most high tech security systems. and the smaller town has very low crime. I have walke around in the dead of night there plenty of times and felt completely safe.

Taylor from Manchester, WA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	I have not been in a SINGLE class that I have not learned so much from! Every professor I have had make class fun, interesting, and extremely enjoyable! My grades have been higher than they have have here at CWU.
Am enjoying being here	The campus and town are absolutely amazing! The campus has a mix of old achitecture charm and technilogically advanced feel. The new Rec Center is unbelieveable with state of the art machines and the tallest climbing wall in the state! The food is not the typical school food, either. The town (although small) is amazing in every way; Ellensburg is so quaint and has so much to do for anyone and everyone!
Bang for the buck	Well, everyone knows that college expenses are not fun! However, CWU definately provides the education and experience for your money! Whether you are into music and theater or hiking and fishing, there is always something to do here!
Tips for prospective students	Be open to every experience! Get involved in your residence halls, clubs, activities, anything! Don't be afraid to be yourself and try new things; everyone is accepting here. Be sure to pack the appropriate weather too-it can be in the 100's or the 20's!
Great for these types of students	CWU is great for students who enjoy the outdoors, enjoy the big university feel at a smaller university, need individualized help, and want a college experience that will be forever cherished.

Nikita from Saint Helens, OR

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	The professors here are really knowledgable, and I'm learning a lot in all of my classes. In University 101 (a class everyone is required to take), I'm learning a lot about the school and other classes they offer. Not only that, but I'm also learning a lot about being an adult and about being responsible for myself.
Am enjoying being here	I absolutely Love it up here. There's a lot of snow and ice in the winter and it gets really really cold but I've adapted pretty fast. Being from Oregon, we don't get a lot of that! The town is relatively small compared to some cities, but it's absolutely beautiful and not that far from Yakima and Seattle. But don't get me wrong, there's still a lot for you to do! The college itself has lots of events and options for students to choose from.
Bang for the buck	Since I am an out of state student, it's a little more expensive than you would expect. But they do offer a Western Undergraduate Exchange Waiver (WUE) to most students who come from the northwest area (oregon, idaho, california, etc. There's more information about which states are covered on their website). This helped me out a lot. There are a lot of scholarships too, and you can apply for almost all of them with one application at the beginning of february. The cost is worth it though; the campus is beautiful and they have a lot to offer!
Tips for prospective students	Bring lots of warm clothes, snow boots, and a couple rolls of quarters! Because the campus is small, it's not that hard to get around, but make sure you know where you're going and give yourself plently of time to get there. There's also a greyhound bus station here! Make sure you buy the tickets three weeks ahead of time, because they're a lot cheaper that way. And make sure you go to things like the free on campus movies or hit the gym! It's a great way to meet new people and make friends.
Great for these types of students	People who want the smaller-town experience, who want tons of major options, those who want a town with 4 completely different and distinct seasons without a lot of rain.

Peyton from Ellensburg, WA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	I'm a running start student here at Central and the staff is amazing. There are small classes so a student gets to know the professor, and the professor knows them by name. This school has a great music and teaching program.
Academic Rigor	Depends on what you are looking for. This school has one of the top teaching programs and music programs. They are also an up and coming star in science. They'd like to compete with University of Washington, but I don't see their science program becoming that prominent very soon.
Dorm Life	I've heard some horror stories, but all schools have them. Most of the dorms aren't brand new. But, they are vintage.
Food and Dining	The only place i know for food on campus is The Cerc. Not very many options, but around town there is. Hope you like American, Chinese, Mexican, and Greek food.
Bang for the buck	Good school if you don't have a lot of money.
Great for these types of students	Music and teaching.
Clubs and Activities	They have a lot of clubs.
Greek Life	No Greek life. No Frats :(
Campus Safety	CWU takes safety seriously. I always feel safe on campus. The president of CWU even showed a documentary about rape at the beginning of the year. He was generally concerned with the epidemic of rape sweeping American colleges and seemed genuine when he said he'd take the right and necessary steps if this were to happen to anyone on campus.

Noelle from Olympia, WA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	CWU is a pleasant surprise in a small town. It's a beautiful campus with quality classes and professors. Aside from the wind, it's an awesome school.
Tips for prospective students	Prepare for the wind! And bring some snow boots as well. Other than that, just know where you're going and enjoy everything Central has to offer! Not enough people take advantage of the amenities.
Academic Rigor	If you are truly invested in your education, the professors will make sure you are learning what you need to be prepared for your careers.
Dorm Life	It is what you make of it. The older dorms aren't the most comfortable, but they have some charm to them, and the dorm community is always welcoming and great for making friends.
Food and Dining	The meal plans and discounts are awesome. They have two main dining halls that are full of different and delicious choices. I've never had an issue with the food.
What to do for fun	There are always campus and dorm events if you pay attention. There is also rock climbing, open mic, close to skiing, and downtown is a cute and fun place to adventure around.
Bang for the buck	Every college seems expensive, but CWU is one of the cheaper universities in the state and you really get a lot for your money. It's a wonderful campus with professors that really care about their students' success.
Campus Safety	The campus police are always nearby and there are police-call stations all over campus. Even walking at night is peaceful and safe feeling.

Amy from Ellensburg, WA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	Central Washington University has wonderful facilitators, advisers, and student programs. I have met so many wonderful people, in my courses, as well as in campus activities, and clubs. This college is student-centered, and provides students with equal opportunity, and motivation for success. :)
Tips for prospective students	If you are interested in the college, it's a wonderful choice! You will meet lifelong friends here, as well as be affected by engaging, student-centered professors. The college offers many programs, but we are most known for our Education, Law Enforcement, and Business/Finance programs. Don't doubt yourself in succeeding at this college, and,or, in finding friends. :)
Academic Rigor	I feel as though many courses challenge students. However, some courses of lower credits (I.E. 3 credit, or 1 credit courses) are a lot more work than expected. Sometimes these courses seem to throw a 5 credit workload on their students. At the end of the course, however, students often feel proud, and motivated to continue in the given program. :)
Dorm Life	Dorm life, is dorm life. I never experienced it, because I transferred to CWU from a Community College my Junior year. I did, however, hear good, and bad reviews. I have heard from so many people who were dorm-residents that they met their best friend(s) in the dorms. I have also heard, however, that sharing a bathroom with 16 other girls is tough. But you can do it! :)
Food and Dining	On, and off campus dining are both delicious! El Gato in the SURC, is byfar, my favorite on campus restaurant! :) These places also provide student employment, which is great for us broke college kids! :)
What to do for fun	CWU provides many on campus activities, and clubs! I am currently the President of the Student Washington Education Association, play Intramural Volleyball, and have volunteered at functions planned by the Civic Engagement Center, such as BOO CENTRAL, and Holiday Extravaganza. I also spend a lot of my time at the CWU Recreation Center! There's a rock climbing wall here: How cool is that???? Off campus attractions include downtown shopping, rodeo, art galleries, bowling, and many, many bars. :)
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	One beautiful location at CWU is the Japanese Garden. It includes many Japanese flowers, and plants, a river, and is just really peaceful to walk through, or even sit and do your homework in!
Great for these types of students	CWU is great for ALL students. :)
Clubs and Activities	As I had mentioned above, I am the President of SWEA, the Student Washington Education Association. :) This club provides many professional development opportunities, and partakes in community outreach. Other clubs on campus range from the Happiness Club, to an African American Pride Club, to a Gay-Straight Alliance club! Clubs attend a club fair every year, and attract students of diverse backgrounds, and encourage students to get involved!
Campus Safety	CWU Campus Police keeps me feeling safe every quarter! I have taken Winter courses, late at night, and felt secure walking through campus, in the dark, due to the campus enforcement. The campus is also well lit, and it's attendees are mighty friendly!

Valerie from Camas, WA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	It is the best college I have every been to! I love it here! Highly recommended!
Tips for prospective students	It has an amazing music program. Everyone there is so nice, they will make you feel welcomed and at home. Best place to go to school!
Academic Rigor	It is a public college with a private school education.
Dorm Life	Everyone is so amazing, it feels just like home! You are living with a bunch of really cool friends!
Food and Dining	The food is really, really good. Lots of variety. But tends to get a little old after awhile.
What to do for fun	Hang out with friends. There is a HUGE gym with a rock climbing wall and everything. And just exploring the cute town of Ellensburg.

Norma from Buckley, WA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	Close to home, and very outgoing. Stuff is so friendly and nice. And it had most of the stuff I was interested in. Love it!!
Tips for prospective students	Get out there, go to every program. You might meet people with the same interests of you. Plus, it is good to meet new people. Don't stick with your high school friends all the time.
Academic Rigor	Love the professors. They are so nice.
Dorm Life	I am staying in the new freshman hall, and I am so glad that I got my own bathroom. Always good to do stuff with your roommate.
Food and Dining	So goo, but wished had more healthy foods.
What to do for fun	Not much for under-aged students.
Bang for the buck	Cheaper then bigger colleges.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Very open to homosexuals.
Clubs and Activities	Not many clubs, but big on sports.
Greek Life	None
Campus Safety	CWU police everywhere. Plus, the campus is very lite up.

Robyn from Walla Walla, WA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	The staff at Central are very friendly and willing to work with their students. The campus is beautiful and well-maintained. The student aides and other student volunteers are very open and willing to talk with students or help them in any way they can.
Tips for prospective students	Get all of your financial and registration paperwork done early. The more you procrastinate, the harder it will be for you to get aid and into the classes you want. Also, remember that this is not high school, you have to actually try to get a passing grade.
Academic Rigor	This school is on a quarter system, which means that it's fast-paced and ready to roll. If you like to buckle down and go rather than drag things out, this school is awesome. If you feel like you're falling behind, many of the teachers are willing to work with you to figure out a good way for you to learn the material. Other than that, it really depends on the the class and the teacher.
Dorm Life	Unfortunately, I never stayed in a dorm, but from what I hear, it's a blast.
Food and Dining	The food at Central is amazing. The culinary students make everything from Chinese to burgers and fries to gourmet dinners.
What to do for fun	Central has what is called the Student Union and Recreation Center, which includes a full size indoor track, ellipticals, weight sets, two basketball courts and a 20-foot rock climbing wall. In Ellensburg, where Central is located, there are plenty of fish and wildlife trails, great hiking trails up Manastash Ridge and the other outcroppings around the city, and plenty to do in town.
Bang for the buck	I think that schools like Central are the best deal for the amount of money spent. Freshman fees include dorm costs, a food plan, and tuition for very reasonable prices. Most classes are anywhere between 15 and 50 people, so there is a lot of personal communication with the teachers.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	The campus has an anthropological museum that has multiple displays a year, an authentic Japanese garden located near the SURC, and many events and get-togethers throughout the year.
Great for these types of students	People who are looking for a moderate sized college People who are looking for a place free from automatic judgement People who want a good education for less
Clubs and Activities	There are over 100 clubs and intramurals at Central. If you can't find a club that fits you, you can get five of your friends and a teacher willing to sponsor, and you can start your own club, it's that easy.
Greek Life	There are no sororities or fraternities on campus.
Campus Safety	The campus is protected by campus police, City of Ellensburg Police, and Kittitas county sheriffs. The campus has several emergency button posts that you can press if you feel that you are in an emergency and get help right away.