<p>These boards are probably most useful when they can be searched by students or parents wanting to learn more about a school. You would add to the archive if you're an admitted (or current) student and would list your reasons. This is usually a quiet board but this would be a way to capture some of what drew recent admits to wonderful Walla Walla:</p>
<p>I agree this type of thread represents the best use of CC, helpful for prospective students and parents alike. My D, who, as far as I know, has never been on this website, was admitted EDII. Whitman was the second school she visited and remained the school she measured all others against. Her overnight stay was very good, which I am sure helped. Some horror stories of overnights at other schools tell of visitors sexiled for hours or abandoned by their hosts. My D found her host conscientious and the kids that hung out in her room fun and friendly. They treated her to what seemed like a typical weekday evening: dining hall, hanging out, some studying. The school arranged for her to sit in on an intimate upper level bio class (famous fish guy) that impressed her with how exciting and lively and it was. The overall vibe was great. </p>
<p>We all agreed the campus is beautiful and well kept, with outdoor sculpture and specimen trees that have earned bragging rights. The library is unbelievable. The things that my D is specifically interested in are just a few of the things Whitman is known for: an excellent Biology department (fab new science building) and a fantastic Outdoor Program. She is a climber, so the campus wall and the many climbing trips (plus backpacking, snowcamping,etc.) were very important. All our contact with the school supports Whitman's reputation as a school that's run well. Questions are answered quickly and thoroughly, everyone's helpful. </p>
<p>Then there's Walla Walla. We loved it. Who wouldn't want to visit a kid there? A town with history, architecture, delicious wine, the best onions, beautiful surroundings and wilderness a stone's throw away. We are from northern CA, and my D feels no affinity for southern CA nor was she interested in going back east; the Northwest feels just right to her--familiar and a little exotic at the same time. Since being accepted at Whitman, Whitties are coming out of the woodwork. I have now talked to many parents and kids who go to Whitman and no one doesn't have great things to say about it; I have also met alumni who wax nostalgic about their experience. I have every reason to believe my impressions will be confirmed--that Whitman manages to create a friendly fun atmosphere that encourages intellectual pursuit and cooperation while discouraging elitism and status-seeking.</p>
<p>Its personality. It seems to me that the school attracts, for the most part, a special kind of students. Plus, everyone seems so happy:D.</p>
<p>Location was also a positive factor. Driving to Whitman, feels like driving into the twilight zone. And, last but not least, the school academic reputation -- which was actually the first thing that caught my eye.</p>
<p>Admitted.</p>
<p>Cheers,</p>
<p>WF</p>
<p>P.S. "sexiled"...lol!</p>
<p>I chose Whitman because of its academic rigor as well as its wholesome student body. I grew up on the East Coast, attending an intellectually, as well as socially, competitive high school (similar to others, I assume). Slightly jaded, I desired change, seeking a West Coast equivalent to Williams or Amherst. Although lesser known than these two schools, college counselors described Whitman as equally rigorous. </p>
<p>I also read 40 Colleges That Change Lives by Loren Pope, intrigued by Whitmans (then) relative obscurity. Once finished, I booked a flight to Seattle, and bought a bus ticket to Walla Walla. I attended classes, took a tour, and stayed overnight. In my mind, students seemed academically driven, enthusiastic, and overall balanced in their approach to studies. Whitmans outdoor club also influenced my decision to attend. It appeared to offer a healthy escape from the academic stress characteristic of top-notch colleges.</p>
<p>Lastly, my parents undoubtedly shaped my decision (something no high school student will ever admit, but something that is nevertheless true). Whitman graduates were starting to enroll in residency programs back East, enabling my mom to train a few. My parents also knew of the schools strong academic reputation. I sent in the acceptance slip and the rest is history. </p>
<p>This was my experience, which will likely differ from others. My hope, however, is that it will offer insight into the stressful, and at times confusing, college decision process.</p>
<p>My D attends Whitman as a sophomore and loves it. D #2 is also considering it (the only reason she wouldn't attend is not to follow her sister and therefore have her own new experience). The friendliness is second to none and we've visited over 25 campuses. Admissions staff is wonderful, students are truly happy and truly involved. My D likes to call the student body "closet nerds" - outgoing and fun students with very nerdy interests. She's an unathletic artist (theatre and dance) and yet is hooked on rock climbing because of Scrambles. George, the new president, knew her name the first weekend. She can easily get the courses she wants and has amazing availability to profs. Whitman is truly underated on the east coast, and can easily hold its own against any of those other top tiers. (Love that Whitman beat Dartmouth in cycling and debating- national champs!)</p>
<p>My d is settling in happily at Whitman. She finds "ALL" her professors "brilliant" and "very accessible". She finds her classmates very bright and eager to participate. The food is great and there are more parties and other activities to experience than there is time in her life. "Everyone" is friendly. Orientation certainly went well and Whitman's support for freshman parents is wonderful. Daughter, Dad and Mom are all infatuated with Whitman (and Walla Walla). We worried about her choosing Whitman over a very highly ranked (Eastern) LAC, but we're glad she chose this jewel of a school, instead.</p>