Reviews

I can honestly say that I have never felt so well taken care of academically. All of the teachers here are dedicated to their job and to the students. They go out of their way to make sure that every student is keeping up with the material. The class sizes are small enough that you become friends with your professor. You get to know them, they get to know you. You form a relationship based not only on learning, but on interaction.

I simply love this school. The other students who go here are fun and caring. The classes are interesting. The campus life is abundant. If you need help in any arena, you can find it and there is always someone to talk to if you need an open ear.

Since it is a private school, it is rather expensive. If you want to go into Business, Nursing, Engineering, Politics, or a related field than this is a great school. However, I wouldn't suggest this school or students on the art-sy side of the spectrum.

Get involved in every and any club in which you have an interest. This school is full of oppotunities, people to meet, and places to go, but you have to put in a little of the leg work to network to these groups.

UP offers a top-notch education if you want to go into Business, Nursing, Engineering, Politics, or a related field.

Most of the professors that I've had are very passionate about the subject they teach which makes it that much easier to learn. I have had a few classes that provide powerpoints ahead of time so note taking is a lot more accurate and efficient.

The people here are very friendly. There are various clubs and campus activities that allow you to meet and get to know many people. The volunteer activities are easily accessible and some even take place on campus. This school offers numerous things that allow you to feel at home here; including: movie nights, coffee nights, plays, intramural sports, etc.

The cost of tuition is quite high. Some classes, biology especially, tend to have 60+ students because there are many students required to take it and not enough professors. They do offer some free events.

Don't be afraid to ask question, whether it be to a neighbor, professor, hall director, etc. Joining clubs and other activities help you to meet other people which make living on campus a lot easier. Take advantage of the free events (ex. movies, coffee, field trips, etc.) because youre paying for the steep tuition. Don't be lazy, search for scholarships!

Anyone.

UP is a thriving community in which the academic and extra-curricular opportunities available foster your intellectual, mental, and spiritual growth. Its core values are Teaching and Learning, Faith and Formation, and Service and Leadership and the faculty, staff, and students truly embody these values. The Business, Nursing, and Engineering schools are heralded as the best in the region.

Don't let yourself get trapped in the UP bubble. (This is something my friends and I have to remind ourselves every year) So, don't be lazy about taking advantage of the public transportation system and make plans to go out and explore Portland. The school is located on a bluff in NW Portland, but that shouldn't stop you from going out to places like Alberta Street, Mississippi Avenue, NW 23rd Street, or even downtown Portland. The public transportation system is super easy to navigate and if you have any questions or concerns, your Freshman Workshop Leader can be your guide to the city (you'll find out who/what that is later in the summer... expect a call from them!)

Definitely push yourself to get involved. There are a lot of awesome clubs and organizations with caring and talented individuals ready to meet you. Just remember that what you get from these clubs, organizations, and people, depends on the amount of effort you put in to contribute.

As bad as it sounds, coming into Freshman year I was terrified that UP would be too easy for me academically since I ranked much above the average SAT and GPA that the school listed. However, I have found that the classes offered at UP are of top quality and are just as academically rigorous as any other school. I have a friend who started off at UP, transferred to Georgetown, and then came back to UP and says the academic expectations are similar. I am enjoying my classes, learning a lot, and the professors really care about you. At UP you're not just a number and people really do care about your education.

Although this review will be based on stereotypes, this is the culture around the dorms our school has created (and sometimes it can be pretty accurate). We have two all male dorms: Villa Maria and Christie. Although we have no Greek system, Villa is essentially UP's only real fraternity. The guys are all bros and they are most known for their appearances at sports events as the Villa Drum Squad. Christie is typically known as the dorm for shy engineers. Kenna is an all girls dorm that for the past two years has been known as the dorm full of party girls. Mehling is the only other all girls dorm... if you have the choice, try to move into the first floor because move in and move out days are awful if you're anywhere else (there are only 2 elevators and 8 floors... you do the math). Corrado, Shipstad, Fields, and Schoenfeldt are the co-ed dorms. Corrado rooms are the smallest on campus. Shipstad has one of the more lively in-dorm communities and has the coolest common area. Fields and Schoenfeldt are the newest dorms but they're also the furthest away from campus. I hear that Schoenfeldt boys usually have a close-knit community but Fields girls hardly ever talk to each other.

On a more personal note: I've lived in Kenna and Mehling. I hated Kenna because there was barely any sense of community and I had a friend in every wing who can attest to the fact that most girls in Kenna are obnoxious party girls. The Kenna hall staff is also really strict on rules and noise. Mehling is way more lax and I felt a way stronger sense of community with my wing and my floor in Mehling. Most Kennadians I've spoken to also dislike it.

Bon Appetite is the catering company for our school. They contracted with the city not to allow any other food establishments within a one mile radius of our school. Don't let that stop you from exploring off campus options though. Mio Sushi, Thai Ginger, Cha! Cha! Cha!, and East Side Deli are some of the more popular places close to campus.

The on campus food in the cove and the commons can get kind of boring since it's the same stuff every week, but the commons has done a really good job of trying to mix things up once in a while this year. Pizza, salad, soups, and burgers are the staples that never change in the commons. We have stations called carve, global, and bowls that serve different things every week. The carve usually serves things like rotisserie chicken or meatloaf and mashed potatoes (not to mention the mac&cheese which is the best!). Global serves anything from thai to indian to french. Bowls involves the ever popular taqueria, Mediterranean, and even Hawaiian food options!

Serving sizes are huge and I did actually gain the freshman 15...

CPB, the Campus Program Board, as well as the many different clubs and organizations on campus have programs going on almost every week. All you have to do is pay attention to the pilots-weekly emails the school sends out for more information. CPB plays free movies every weekend in our auditorium and Pilots After Dark provides awesome late-night activities on the weekends. PAD activities range from karaoke, to live dj sets and performances, to trivia night, and more. CPB also hosts dances in conjunction with ASUP.

Take advantage of the fact that you're in the city of Portland. Portland culture is amazing once you get yourself immersed. Go on a hike, explore downtown, the food carts, and more! The possibilities are truly endless once you get yourself to actually do them.

UP is a pricey school and tuition does raise every year. That being said, it also offers financial aid to 95% of the students. I am luckily one of those students and if it wasn't for the financial aid I know I, along with many of my friends, would not be able to attend this school. Nonetheless, I do think it is worth it. I love the faculty here and they really care about you. I also do think I am learning a lot both academically and personally.

I feel extremely safe on the UP campus. It isn't too big and it isn't too small. Although P-SAFE (public safety) can get annoying as they drive around campus, you know that they're watching out for you. Plus the RAs make sure you have P-SAFE's numbers programmed into your phone in case of emergency.

Not only do the professors show that they care about the students, but they also demonstrate their passion for teaching and the subject that they teach. My first semester has been challenging, but not overwhelming. If I were to feel overwhelmed about absolutely any subject, the professors are always available to help me.

I'm a commuter student, so I spend most of my time in the library between classes. The people here are really friendly and easy to get along with. The campus is gorgeous year-round. But at the end of the day, I'm glad I get to go home to my own bedroom and bathroom.

I believe that the expensiveness is worth it if you want to be a well-rounded student. University of Portland really takes care of you; it feels like a community here. If you want a higher education asides from your undergraduate, the money is well worth it.

Go visit the campus for yourself and take advantage of being a student for a day or even spend the night with a current UP student. Being exposed to the campus and classes will give you a feel if UP is the place for you.

Students who want to academically challenge themselves, but also know when to take a break and have some fun. Anyone who wants a college experience and higher education.

The professors at the University of Portland are commited to teaching their subjects to the best of their abilities. They all love what they do, and bring that enthusiasm to every lecture. Every member of the faculty and staff truly want you to succeed, and will go above and beyond to make sure that happens. All of the classes are relevant to what you want to do with your life, and help you to grow both mentally and emotionally.

I love this school! There is always something fun going on whether its a school wide activity, something put on by an organization (such as Outdoor Pursuits), or a dorm activity. You can truly find something that you are interested in. The students and staff of the University of Portland are some of the nicest and friendliest people, and truly make the experience that more special.

The University of Portland is unique these days in that its Professors actually teach the classes. There are no student teachers, so each time you walk into a class you are getting the very best possible. The university also works very hard with every student to make sure it is financially affordable. Don't let the private school price tag scare you, a majority of the students have scholarships!

Study Abroad! I did the year long program to Salzburg, Austria and it was the best experience of my life (and cost me less than if I'd stayed on campus)! The University of Portland encourages all of its students to study abroad and therefore makes it possible for everyone. No matter what your major is you can make it happen!

The University of Portland is ideal for motivated students who truly want to get the most out of their higher education.

The University of Portland is a lovely small school. It is religious, however it isn't oppressively religious. The professors are competent as well as helpful, a few are downright hysterical.

Over the summer prepare and exercise routine, the food at UP is very good and if you aren't careful enough that can be an issue. The next important thing is to get used to rain. Lastly, focus on work and family, UP isn't cheap, and family is always needed to help pay.

UP isn't easy, but neither is it challenging beyond all reason. If you pick your professors wisely and get a good study pattern down quick, then it gets much easier.

Wonderful. I am in Christie (an all male dorm) and it is great. The dorms are pretty cool. Most of the people on campus are very friendly.

The food is usually very good. The only drawbacks are that the food isn't cheap, and sometimes the new chefs undercook the steaks.

There are programs set up so that the students can get off campus and see stuff. I went ice skating just a little while ago actually. Downtown Portland is just a bus ride away. There is a great restaurant only a few miles away called the Kennedy School.

I personally think it is a little bit overpriced, however it does give a very good education and a good chance to get hired directly out of UP so it is pretty darn good.

There is a rivalry between the two all male dorms, Christie and Villa Maria. Christie likes to steal Villa's stuffed monkey. There is a great romantic spot next to the bluff that overlooks all of Portland. A great date spot.

This school is great for students that want a quieter life. UP is in the suburbs, it can have a very lethargic feeling some days when the rain pours really hard.

Decent Clubs and Activities for such a small school. The intramural sports are very fun.

None.

The campus is in one of the rougher parts of Portland, but it is completely safe at night. The only problem is that bikes often get stolen unless they have a U/D lock on them.

University of Portland is a welcoming community, full of passionate professors and friendly students. The university's commitment to a full education of student (mind, heart, and soul) makes this school unique. I love UP!

Go in for a prospective student tour/interview. Even if you are already admitted to the school, this interview helped me to understand UP better and made my college decision easier. Plus, you get a free t-shirt!

Prepare to be challenged. Professors are more than willing to help you outside of class-- and with small class sizes and no T.A.'s, forming a personal relationship with them is very easy. There are many outside resources for academics as well.

No partying, quiet hours are respected, and a ton of fun is had. Great R.A.'s and dorm activities.

95% of the food served is certified organic, and with a sushi bar, 4 coffee places on campus, and great Mac and Cheese, the food is superb. Many choices for allergies/gluten-free/vegetarian etc.

Portland is a great city! Full of arts, sports, and VooDoo donuts!
UP also has tons of activities and tons of service opportunities!

No Greek Life.

The academics at UP are excellent. Classes challenge you and make you think critically without being completely overwhelming. Small class sizes are also a plus. One of my classes last semester only had about ten students -- creates a nice atmosphere for discussion.

There are also opportunities to learn outside of the classroom. I'm an English major and have an on campus job writing for our newspaper. The English Dept. also sponsors NUCL, a conference where students have the opportunity to present their original papers. Ed majors spend time in local elementary and high schools as a part of their field experience. Some students have internships. If you look around, you will definitely be able to find something to supplement the experience you're getting in the classroom.

People are friendly, and there are all sorts of on campus activities that you can hang out at with your new friends. Every Saturday the RAs put on Pilots After Dark events. Past activities have included foam parties, art nights, and dances. The dorms do events, too; this past year mine had an international food night and a speed friending event, among other things. CBP organizes dances and coffehouses (last semester we had Meg and Dia!). CBP is also responsible for Espresso UP, which is a weekly hangout with free coffee, tea, and Italian sodas.

All that is just the on campus stuff. Once you venture out into the city of Portland, there are tons of things to do. I won't list them all here, but highlights include Powell's Books, Voodoo Doughnuts, and Saturday Market.

Perhaps one of the downsides to UP is its cost; it is a VERY expensive school. However, it is a wonderful institution of higher learning and very much worth it

Visit campus. Attend a few classes and consider spending the night. You need to know that it is a good fit for you.

We've got a College of Arts and Sciences and Schools of Engineering, Nursing, and Business -- there's a place for practically every student here.

The teachers here are absolutely amazing and genuinely care about YOU and WANT YOU to succeed. Every single teacher that I've had has been willing to meet with me to make sure that I understand the material and has always tried to make sure I feel welcome in their office hours.

I love being at this school! Everyone is very welcoming. The campus life is like coming home to a family. Everyone knows everyone and there's always something to do!

Since this is a private school, it is on the more expensive side. I honestly think it is worth every cent! From the experience to the teachers to the education, it is defiantly worth every dime you have to pay.

Get involved early with any and every club that you can. Also keep your room door open during the day if you're in there, people will stop by and say hi and hang our.

This is a great school if you're considering Business, Nursing, Engineering, Education, or science fields.

An amazing school with a beautiful Campus, University of Portland overlooks downtown and provides a great sense of community. The people are all very nice and it is not surprising when the person in front of you holds the door open or says hello. The small teacher to student ratio also allows for individual attention and makes it easy to succeed.

Visit the campus and get a feel for the school. It may be more expensive, but it is so worth it.

The academics are hard, because it is a private liberal arts school and the small class sizes make it difficult to skip class going unnoticed. The work load however is manageable and we have a brand new library on campus that is a great place to study.

The dorms all have their distinct personalities and are nice. The ones that are older make up for it by having bigger rooms and the new dorms are very nice. Every dorm tries to build a great community and they all have their own activities.

Our dining hall, the commons, is an amazing place to catch up and talk with friends or curl up next to the fireplace and study. The food is delicious, because a lot of it is locally grown. We have multiple starbucks on campus that you can use your meal points to pay for as well as a sushi chef for lunches.

The city life in downtown Portland is amazing. I love going to concerts either at the Rose Quarter or the Crystal Ballroom and tickets can be as cheap as $20 with so many venues and so many artists. Pioneer Square is fun to visit and there is a ton of shopping in unique Portland stores as well as malls. Public transportation is easy and reasonably priced. On campus they show movies every Friday and Saturday and have live music in the Cove (an on campus hangout and dining area) as well. There are lots of activities and clubs to get involved in along with free fitness classes for all the students.

It is more expensive, but worth it.

The boys dorms on campus all show up to the soccer games shirtless with a unique flair from thier respective dorm. You will see Villa guys sporting kilts.

Although it is a private Catholic school you don't need to be Catholic to attend and in fact, many of the students aren't religious at all. The school isn't going to force religion on anyone but if you are religious they offer amazing services.

There are lots of clubs to join, or you can start your own.

University of Portland does not have any Greek life.

P-Safe is our on campus security and makes sure that everyone is safe. They don't want to see you get in trouble with the Portland Police and just make sure that you are being responsible.