What's Oregon State University's City Like?

Can someone tell me more about the city where Oregon State University is located? I'm considering it for college and would love to know what the area is like in terms of lifestyle and student life.

Oregon State University is located in Corvallis, Oregon. With a population of around 60,000, Corvallis is a medium-sized college town that's pretty laid-back and community-oriented.

Corvallis offers a range of outdoor activities, with numerous parks, hiking and biking trails, and the Willamette River all nearby. Residents enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing. Being located in the heart of the Willamette Valley, it's also not too far from the coast, and Portland is around a 90-minute drive away.

In terms of the town itself, it has a charming downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, theaters, and galleries, as well as a farmers market during the warmer months. Public transportation is reliable, and the town is also walkable and bike-friendly.

Student life at Oregon State is also quite vibrant. The University campus is at the heart of Corvallis, and students can be seen all about town. OSU is a major research university, and this can also foster a rich intellectual environment.

In terms of social activities, OSU hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, sporting events, and guest lectures. There are also plenty of clubs, and student organizations to join that cater to a wide range of interests. Lastly, there's the Greeks: OSU has a significant Greek system, with about 20% of students participating in sororities or fraternities.

In short, Corvallis provides a comfortable, community-centric environment that combines the charm of a smaller town with the opportunities typically associated with a larger university setting. It's a great place for students who value both an active outdoor lifestyle and a vibrant, tightly-knit community.