Exploring Higher Education in Washington

Hi friends, I'm looking towards potentially moving to Washington for college. Can anyone tell me how many colleges there actually are in Washington? I'm also curious if anyone has experience with or opinions on any of them?

Sure, happy to help! There are about 40 colleges and universities in Washington State. This diversity means that you're very likely to find a school that suits your needs. For brevity's sake, I'll focus on a few of the major ones known for different strengths and attributes.

1. University of Washington: Based in Seattle, it's the highest-ranked college in the state and also one of the most well-known. As a large public university known for its top-tier research environment, they have a broad array of strong programs but some of their particularly stand-out departments include Computer Science, Engineering, and Medicine.

2. Washington State University: This is the second largest public university in the state, located in Pullman. They have a strong Hospitality Business Management program and are also known for their communications and engineering departments.

3. Gonzaga University: A private, Jesuit-school in Spokane. Gonzaga is known for its quick growing programs and international business program. Not to forget its NCAA Division I basketball team, the Bulldogs.

4. Western Washington University: Located in Bellingham, this public university is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental programs.

5. Seattle University: A mid-sized private Jesuit university in Seattle famous for their nursing program and a strong emphasis on service and social justice.

6. Pacific Lutheran University: A private liberal arts university in Tacoma, known for their programs in nursing and business.

Remember to consider factors beyond just academics, like your desired campus environment, class sizes, extracurricular interests, and financial considerations. Maybe you'd prefer the urban environment of Seattle, or perhaps the smaller cities of Spokane or Tacoma are more appealing. Each college has its own unique feel and offerings, so I would recommend visiting campuses if possible. It wouldn't hurt to reach out to current students or alumni either, as they can provide valuable first-hand experiences and insights about life at their respective schools.

Choosing a college is a personal decision and there's no one-size-fits-all, so be sure to take your time and find a college where you feel you could thrive.