Reflections on Seattle University: A Mixed Experience
Sidebar: If you are considering enrolling in the social work program at Seattle University (SU) or if you are an alumnus of the institution, this article may resonate with your own experiences. Let's delve into the pros and cons of an academic journey at this renowned private Catholic university.
The Positive Aspects
My time at Seattle University was a bittersweet experience. One of the most pleasant aspects of my journey was the merit-based scholarship that SU offered me due to my transfer GPA. This was a significant financial relief for someone living on a Veteran disability pension. The smaller class sizes at SU allowed for more personalized and engaging learning experiences compared to the community college I had previously attended. Additionally, the beautiful and well-maintained campus provided a comfortable and inviting environment, with top-class food in the cafeteria and a wide variety of dining options that catered to different tastes.
The Not-So-Positive Aspects
One of the most challenging aspects of my time at SU was the composition of my classmates. Many of them were recent high school graduates, coming from backgrounds of privilege and having limited world experience. This often led to emotionally driven opinions rather than logically formed perspectives. The staff, while competent, did not stand out as significantly as I had hoped. Notably, one of the professors was a very negative influence, casting a shadow over an otherwise enriching curriculum. Despite these challenges, there was a standout course on Dante's Paradiso, which I found both engaging and enlightening.
The Cohort Experience
Another significant drawback was the cohort-based program structure. This system grouped students based on anticipated graduation dates, leading to mandatory interactions with a fixed group of peers. While this helped in some areas, such as landing program-oriented internships, it also resulted in lengthy, repetitive class sessions that could be less than ideal for personal and academic growth. Near the end of my program, I began to skip these group discussions, preferring the autonomy of my elective classes where I could have more varied interactions.
Personal Reflections and Future Directions
Despite the challenges, I can say that I am glad to have experienced SU and its social work program. However, the overall experience left me with a sense of being somewhat isolated. My positive relationships were limited to the office staff, security, and fellow students in elective classes. Considering a hypothetical re-entry, I would more likely choose a different institution for future studies. This decision is not due to any lasting animosity but rather a desire for a more balanced and holistic academic environment.
The constant influx of alumni magazines and donation requests from SU were a testament to its strong community ties but became somewhat bothersome over time. While I still appreciate the value of giving back, the current system seemed to emphasize solicitation over support.
In conclusion, while Seattle University provided me with a diverse and enriching academic journey, there are definite areas for improvement. The institution's commitment to a tight-knit yet potentially isolating cohort model, along with some shortcomings in staff and peer dynamics, were notable challenges. However, the positive aspects, such as financial aid, smaller class sizes, and a beautiful campus, remain significant factors that prospective students should weigh carefully.
Keywords: Seattle University, academic experience, social work program