Does anyone here attend a university in Bend, Oregon? I'm considering applying there and would love to know more details about student life, academics, and the general atmosphere!
Absolutely, happy to provide some insights about universities in Bend, Oregon!
Let's start with Oregon State University (OSU) - Cascades. It's a relatively smaller campus with about 1,300 students, which fosters a close-knit community. Class sizes are generally smaller, providing chances for more one-on-one time with instructors. The academic focus is rather STEM-oriented, with popular majors including Computer Science, Natural Resources, and Energy Systems Engineering.
The student life is highly influenced by Bend's setting. It sits in the high desert, at the foot of the Cascade Mountains, which makes it an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. The campus itself is very much woven into the natural environment. You can expect a lot of outdoor activities: hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, and whitewater rafting, to name a few. There's also a significant emphasis on sustainability in this environment-conscious town.
Downtown Bend, which is a short distance from OSU-Cascades, offers a good mix of restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, and local breweries. The city is known for its vibrant local music and arts scene.
OSU also places a significant focus on community engagement - students are encouraged to become involved and make an impact in the local community. The Bend Beavs Volunteer Program, for example, connects students with local volunteer opportunities.
The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly. Bend has that small-town charm with the amenities of a larger city, and people value a balanced lifestyle.
On a side note, Bend's weather is also worth mentioning. Despite being in Oregon, it doesn't rain as often as in Portland or Eugene, thanks to it being on the east side of the Cascades. Instead, you can expect a semi-arid climate with warm-to-hot summers and cool-to-cold, dry winters.
So, if you love the great outdoors and prefer a smaller, more intimate academic experience, you might find Bend to be a perfect fit! Just be sure to visit and talk to current students to get a better feel for the campus and community before making a decision. Hope that helps!
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