UW is one of my top choice because I think it’s well known for job employment and the beautiful campus. I have never been to Seattle but I have heard this thing called “Seattle freeze” which means that it is hard to make friends in Seattle. I just want to know, is it hard to make friends in UW? I am talking about ethnic diversity here like asians hanging out with white, black, hispanic or any different race. It seems like UW is perfect in every aspect but I am just a little bit skeptical about their social life (parties and etc). I dont think its true but the term “Seattle freeze” keeps hitting me.
I moved to Seattle a few years ago, and find the freeze to be minimal. There are lots (LOTS) of people in Seattle from around the country (and the world). UW has a decent number out of state and in state students not actually from Seattle, too. I wouldn’t worry about it. People here like to say it, but I’ve found it isn’t really true.
My son just went through his UW Freshman Orientation. There are lots of students from other part of the state and from out-of-state. During the 1.5 day orientation, there are plenty of opportunity to get to know your group. He already made some friends from out of state and they are on Snapchat and Instagram everyday.
There are also something called “First-year Interest Group” (FIG) where you take all of your Freshman classes together with the same group of students. It’s kind of like back to Elementary school where you stay with your class the entire year. You’ll get to know you FIG brothers/sisters really well.
When it comes to Races, it’s definitely easier to be friends with people that look like you and share the same culture heritage. You’ll need a little bit more effort to make friends with other races, but I don’t think there are any barriers.
@MrDiaz: Very social. Very easy to make friends.
The most bothersome aspect about Seattle is that it is too informal. Could breed some bad habits if you want to live & work in the South or on the East Coast.
@Publisher Do you go to UW Seattle?
No. Relatives & friends. Very friendly community. But I will try to get answers for you if you have any broad questions. Everyone I have contact with are in graduate school, however.
@Publisher thanks man really appreciate it. UW is one of my dream school so…lol one last question: hows the party scene?
That I don’t know and have no access to specifics as the only folks I know were/are grad students or taught in the law & med schools. But the school has a great location for activities both on & off campus.
Party scene is pretty weak, in comparison to other schools at least. But Seattle is a giant city, not a little college town, so there’s always something to do even if it’s not the campus.
You’ll make many new friends during your freshman year, especially the first few months in the dorms. You’ll make friends in your freshman classes too. Also, join clubs that might interest you.
I want to clarify my earlier responses. I have been told by several current Seattle residents that the “Seattle Freeze” is real so one has to make an effort to make friends outside of those met in dorms & activities.