Gonzaga University (GU)

Gonzaga University "does a phenomenal job of preparing their students for the real world." This is in part facilitated by the "supportive, rather than competitive" academic environment that helps this "really tight-knit community" of undergrads succeed in the classroom. "Classes are mostly discussion-based rather than lecture-based," and "the majority...establish very clear expectations, grading criteria, and a regular class culture." Students enjoy small class sizes, which "allow for more one-on-one communication with professors" and provide "a lot of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized help." Professors are largely well-liked, "especially in the STEM and business majors." Students report that most professors are "passionate about their fields," "generally extremely accessible." Most are "easy to build relationships with" and "always happy to engage with students about their subjects." Students can definitely tell their professors have their best interest at heart. "They also care about me as a person and take the time to check up on me individually." While there are a few outliers who "basically just lectured every day and gave tests," one student writes, "My best professors...encouraged us to draw connections on our own, and taught according to what struck us as important."

The student body at Gonzaga prides itself on its friendliness. "I have felt welcomed and like I can be myself without judgment," says one student. "I never feel like I have to work to 'fit in' because everyone is accepting of one another." On campus, there's a saying, "Zags help Zags," which "every student here takes...to heart in their everyday actions and behaviors." As one undergrad notes, "You really get the feeling everyone around you is looking out for you." Students "apply themselves wholeheartedly to everything that they do" and "are generally respectful and curious." They are also "open to discussion and sharing their honest beliefs and questions." Although GU "could stand to improve upon its diversity initiatives," it "still contains a large number of different viewpoints and ideologies." These ideologies often align with the school's Jesuit background, with an emphasis on "caring for not only their community, but the larger world." Although historically associated with Catholicism, "the Jesuit mission is not super religious itself," and students of other religions "do not feel unwelcome or uncomfortable." Ultimately, undergrads are united by their desire "to do something to help the world." Truly, "It's an engaging community to be a part of."

At GU, students have no shortage of clubs, activities, and events to fill their time. "During the week students are dedicated to their school work, and on weekends they carve out time to party and gather with friends." A "basketball-obsessed school," games "united the student body," and many students attend one "every chance they get." However, being a basketball fan is not necessarily a prerequisite. "I know a strong minority of students who have never been to a basketball game," one student explains.

"A lot of time outside of class is spent with friends in campus buildings like the Hemmingson student center." Other campus groups also do a good job planning events to keep students occupied. For example, "GU Outdoors plans and hosts many outdoor excursions every week," leading students in "activities like skiing and hiking that are available [in] nearby Spokane." Intramural sports are a favorite among students, with frisbee team and "spike ball [being] super popular." Many feel these are "not very serious" ways "to socialize and have fun with other students." There is no Greek system, so "there is no way to have hierarchical groups and cliques." Instead, most people turn to local community service groups. "There are numerous ways to volunteer," one student notes. "Gonzaga has a lot of volunteer-oriented clubs like Moment of Magic, Setons, and Campus Kids, and a ton of students sign up." A "very service-oriented school," Gonzaga instills "the value of service and caring for others in its students."