|
Quality of Life Survey |
| Full-time law program |
I loved living in Salem. It is a small town, but close to the big city
(Portland, OR is only 45 minutes away by car). Cost of living is much
less compared to living in the city. The university operates two
apartment complexes for graduate students. I stayed in one of those
apartments during my last year there. It was great! The law school was
across the parking lot. There was air conditioning, free internet
access, free local phone calls. There is also an optional meal plan at
the cafeteria.
During my first year and a half, I lived in my own apartment without
roommates. It was within walking distance to school. It was a 2
bedroom, 1 1/2 bath townhouse with two stories and a deck. I paid only
$510/month - not something that can be found in most cities.
Law students have access to all facilities at the main university,
including the sports complex (swimming pool, gym, etc.). In particular,
law students have 24-hour key card access to the law school and law
library. A big plus that many other schools don't have. If you a
stressing about a big test, you can head over to the law school at 2 am
and study. Each student is assigned a carrel in the library (you share
with one other person). It's a great place for peace and quiet. On the
first floor of the law school, there is a locker room (everybody gets
their own), a pool table with tv, a kitchen with two refrigerates, four
microwaves, dishes and silverware, and vending machines. With the key
card access, you can practically live their with going home. There is
even a "sick" room with a bed in it, although very few truly sick people
use it. (Not something I know from experience).
There is not much crime in Salem. It mostly amounted to car stereos
being stolen. But I think that kind of thing can be expected anywhere.
Campus security offers escorts for students on campus.
In addition to the cafeteria on campus, there on many restaurants close
by, including a sports bar across the street from the main campus (it's
quite popular). I am vegetarian, so I was afraid living in a smaller
town would limit my options, but I found a great little organic store
that had lots of vegetarian and vegan options. Plus, there are many
vegetarian restaurants and shops in Portland.
The Amtrak station is walking distance to campus via a pedestrian
bridge. Great if you want to go to Portland, Seattle or California. My
family lives in Washington, so I would frequently take the train to
Olympia. If you buy your ticket in advance, it's only about $19 one-way
(cheaper if you buy a round-trip ticket).
|
|
Willamette University College of Law Admission & Application Surveys
