New Viking Times
For students considering
Portland State University
A newsletter to keep you
informed about upcoming programs,
deadlines, and next steps for admission
February 2008
Choosing a University that is Right for You
You’ve perused tons of websites and view books, researched several universities, narrowed your choices, applied for admission, scholarships, and financial aid, and attended campus visits. Now for the hard part – making a choice. Where will you call home as you pursue your academic goals during the next 4 years? How do you choose a college or university that is right for you?
Here is a list of questions we believe are important when choosing a college or university that is right for YOU. To help you compare universities, we have provided information relating to Portland State in the answers below.
1. What makes this university different?
PSU is the largest and most diverse university in Oregon but the average class size is just 23.5 students. Smaller class sizes ensure engaging, one-on-one interaction between you and your professors. Much research indicates that a student is more likely to perform better academically and graduate in 4 years when there is increased faculty-student interaction.
2. What is the quality of the curriculum?
PSU offers over 120 different programs of study. The outstanding quality of the education starts with the innovative, award-winning general education program called “University Studies.” University Studies provides students with interdisciplinary learning experiences that lay the foundation for lifelong intellectual development. Extending throughout the four year curriculum, this program builds critical thinking, effective communication, and a broad awareness of the human experience.
Similarly, but on a different track, students in the PSU Honors Program build these skills and focus on the writing and research skills in preparation for advanced degrees. This small and select program includes junior year internships in Washington DC. Whichever path you select, University Studies or University Honors, will ensure your general education component is relevant and important to your academic success.
And you won’t have to wait until after graduation to put your education to good use. With an exception choice of service learning, internships, and community-based learning projects, you will have the opportunity to work side-by-side with professionals in your field of study.
3. What is the reputation of this school?
For the past five years, PSU’s general education curriculum has been ranked among the nation’s best by U.S. News and World Report in its “America’s Best Colleges” edition. “Programs that Really Work” recognizes “schools with outstanding examples of academic programs that lead to student success.” Portland State University ranked among the nation’s best colleges in five categories: First-Year Experiences, Service Learning, Internships/Co-Ops, Learning Communities, and Senior Capstone.
4. What resources does this university offer?
PSU offers many resources that assist students with academic and personal success. Some of these programs and services include:
Academic Services
Student Services
5. How do I feel when visiting campus?
Every campus has a personality. The value of a campus visit is to discover if that university “personality” is a good match for you. You’re invited to visit Portland State University and experience the rich combination of academic and city life in the heart of Portland. Learn why Portland State is the “University of Choice” for more than 24,000 students. We have several ways for you check out the campus community.
For campus visit information go to: http://www.pdx.edu/admissions/visit.html
Choosing a college is not an easy decision but hopefully after finding the answers to these questions, and continuing to ask yourself a few more, you will be closer to the best decision for you. We hope Portland State University is at the top of your list.
Best of success to you!
If you have any questions, let us know.
We’re here to assist you with your college planning.
Office of Admissions, Registration, and Records
Portland State University
1-800-547-8887
503-725-3511
admissions@pdx.edu
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