<p>Looking for the better fit for a male student, ACT 28, probably interested in poli sci, gov, economics. Neither grunchy/granola nor "bro", not interested in frats or sports. Politically open-minded, leans heavily libertarian but would not do well in an overbearingly liberal environment.</p>
<p>These are two schools we are also interested in so setting a bookmark.</p>
<p>I was in the same boat last year, looking at schools around Portland with my HS senior. As an ecologist, I am fond of looking at a place’s “whole picture”, and I love the Willamette picture. One of the big differences my son noted, and which had a large effect on his choice of WU, was it’s liberal use of big open quads, which lends itself to student meeting, greeting, playing, relaxing, whatever. Also, a nice, small, but interesting downtown is a short stroll away. Also, during our visit, WU exuded a warm, friendly, smart but not at all pretentious atmosphere.
Lewis and Clark is absolutely gorgeous, but it does not have much in the way of big welcoming open spaces, it doesn’t have any near-by (walking distance) cafes or whatnot, bec. it is in a residential area, and during our visit seemed to be alot more rigorously “Politically Correct” about things.
For a laid-back kid without a car, WU was equal to L and C intellectually, but to us, seemed more warm and fuzzy.<br>
So, there’s a single data point for you!</p>
<p>Did any of you consider University of Portland in the mix? I would like to know how it compares with the other Portland area schools. Won’t be able to visit until February.</p>
<p>If you are interested in Political Science, I believe Willamette is the better choice. It is directly across the street from the Oregon State Legislature. Many students intern there. I am a Willamette alum and had a great internship there which resulted in a job offer when I graduated. Also, I currently live in Oregon and the general perception is that Lewis and Clark has a granola, earthy, and liberal student body. I believe Willamette is a little more mainstream. Although I much prefer Portland to Salem, Lewis and Clark is in a bit of a remote location where getting around the city is difficult unless you have a car. Willamette is a short walk into downtown Salem and the train station is across the street. Taking the Amtrak to Portland is about an hour train ride.</p>
<p>I would agree with PacaMom’s assessment of both schools Willamette and L & C. My son, a freshman at Willamette is fairly liberal politically, but has friends there with a variety of political views. He’s neither jock, nor crunchy, although both elements exist at Willamette and seem to blend together into a friendly, accepting community. L & C definitely seems to have a more liberal “feel” to it. U of Portland is also a lovely campus, but feels more conservative due to the Catholic link.</p>
<p>I just have to add that L&C has a daily bus that runs down to Portland. There isn’t a problem getting downtown. Some other locations may be hard to get to.</p>
<p>My daughter will be entering college in 2012 , I haven’t file federal or state income tax since 2006. Do I need to be current regarding this matter to be able to qualify for financial aid through FAFSA.</p>
<p>You do need to at least be up to the current year to file FAFSA. That’s going to be quite a task for you.</p>
<p>Willamette…definitely.</p>
<p>D’s best friend recently graduated from Willamette (she loved it there) and we had two nieces graduate from L&C but a friend of the family transferred out after a year (mixed reviews).</p>
<p>Agree very much with Pacamom’s assessment, as well as boomie and RSD mom. With your self-description, it is hard for me to imagine that L&C would be a good match for you. Willamette could be perfect. Both fine schools, but the vibe of the place can make such a difference. Any chance you can visit?</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>Bookmarked</p>
<p>What is the best place for a student interested in a science major (with minor in romance languages) ? Willamette, UPS or Lewis & Clark?</p>