Hi, I'm a rising junior trying to narrow down my college list and I'm considering some colleges in Olympia. Does anyone have any advice or experiences with the colleges in this area? I'm into liberal arts, if that helps.
Sure, Olympia, the capital of Washington state, is an interesting option for potential studying opportunities. The region has two primary higher-education institutions, The Evergreen State College and South Puget Sound Community College.
The Evergreen State College is a public liberal arts college that provides a non-traditional education through interdisciplinary programs rather than formal majors. This can be particularly appealing if you're interested in studying multiple fields or looking for a more holistic approach to learning. Each year, you get to select a program that combines different subjects, and you work on a year-long project in that area. This could lead to interesting combinations, like studying psychology, sociology, and pre-law together in order to better understand the human mind and how law and society affect individuals. The school places a high emphasis on self-guided learning, critical thinking, and collective work.
South Puget Sound Community College is a two-year community college that offers a variety of programs, including associates degrees and professional/technical certification programs. There's a strong focus on vocational training in areas like nursing, culinary arts, and automotive technology. However, they also have programs in the liberal arts that enable you to complete the first two years of a bachelor's degree and then transfer to a four-year college.
In deciding between these two, take into account your long-term career goals, financial situation, and how you learn best. If you're a highly independent learner with an interest in interdisciplinary studies, Evergreen might be a good fit. If you're more interested in a traditional classroom structure or are looking to transfer to a larger research university eventually, it might make more sense to start at South Puget Sound.
Don't forget about the broader community as part of your college experience. Olympia is known for its vibrant downtown, welcoming atmosphere, and environmental ethos, which can also be beneficial for your learning and personal growth outside of the classroom.
Good luck with your college search!
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