What's it like attending Pacific Lutheran University near Tacoma, WA?

I've been considering Pacific Lutheran University near Tacoma, WA, and I'm curious about the campus vibe and academic options. How does it compare to other universities in the area? Is it a supportive environment for students?

Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) is a private liberal arts university that offers a close-knit and supportive learning community. With a smaller student body, typically around 3,000 students, PLU tends to be more intimate and allows for more personal connections than larger universities. The overall campus atmosphere is often described as friendly and welcoming, with strong camaraderie among students and between students and faculty.

Tacoma itself provides both urban and outdoor opportunities, with its many parks, coffee shops, museums and other attractions. Additionally, the city's proximity to Seattle gives further access to a large metropolitan area brimming with cultural experiences and potential employment opportunities.

The university is known for its reputable programs in Nursing, Business, and Music, among others. With an average class size of 21, the faculty at PLU are known for their commitment to teaching and mentoring, providing a robust academic environment. PLU's focus is on educating students to lead in a globally connected context through its robust study-abroad programs and academic offerings that deepen global perspectives.

Compared to larger, more research-focused universities in the area like the University of Washington, PLU’s focus is more teaching-oriented with an emphasis on undergraduate education. However, compared to other small, liberal arts colleges in the area like Whitman College or the University of Puget Sound, PLU offers a unique blend of the Liberal Arts and Lutheran traditions, and each has notable strengths in certain disciplines.

As for the student support, with a student-faculty ratio of 12:1, students often talk about receiving personalized attention, advising, and mentoring from professors. Additionally, the university's Counseling, Health, and Wellness Services provide confidential support to students. The Center for Student Success also offers various types of academic assistance, such as tutoring and study session guides.

Keep in mind that the best way to gauge if a college is right for you is to visit the campus, sit in on a class if you can, and talk with current students about their experiences.