Photo: Washington and Jefferson College. Retrieved from: www.wikipedia.org
Washington & Jefferson College, more commonly referred to as W&J – has honored and upheld the values and morals of the historical presidents – honor, integrity and unity. The school offers students a well rounded education that incorporates liberal arts, political science and a variety of other majors to help them adjust easily to the real world. First year college students and transfer students alike, can find plenty of opportunity to experience college life at W&J hands-on, as they provide multiple visits and open houses each year, including the infamous Showcase opportunity. Helping students adjust to college life and prepare for their future endeavors is one of the main focuses at W&J College. Students are likely to encounter rough transition periods, competitive markets, and revolving door career moves – making an in-depth training vital to their success.
W&J College encourages students to embrace diversity, difference and eternal change for the betterment of future liberties. The school accepts and welcomes international students and encourage students to get involved with the study abroad programs to gain knowledge of other cultures. Providing students with a well rounded understanding and acceptance for diversity and civility is encouraged with all classes, activities and programs at W&J College, including several programs designed for military students.
School History
Washington & Jefferson College was established in 1781 by Presbyterian missionaries and still remains one of the oldest co-ed liberal arts colleges in the nation. This school started and remains a four year college, but has updated their curriculum with the changing times, incorporating more programs, majors and minors to students. W&J College was built on the core foundation that providing students with a strong academic education as well as a supportive atmosphere to grow as individuals, can increase the success rate of their future. It is this development that helps students to develop the skills and experiences needed to face the realities of life and career paths with steady ground and open minds.
Still located on the original grounds just outside of Pittsburgh, the Washington & Jefferson College campus has lived through some amazing changes in history. With some late 18th century buildings still intact, the school has taken the proper safety updates and precautions to ensure that students can appreciate the deep-rooted history and architecture in a safe environment.
Washington & Jefferson College first began holding classes in several log cabin schools in the Washington County area. The Founders dedication to education provided a stable environment for community students to learn and transform into better citizens for the colonies. The school officially became Washington & Jefferson College in 1865 when Jefferson College and the Washington Academy merged together.
Campus Life
There are plenty forms of motivation found throughout the grounds of Washington & Jefferson College. Students are encouraged to get involved in the many activities, programs and organizations available on campus – all geared toward helping students develop a variety of skills. This school is dedicated to maintaining a strong support system for the students, offering aspects of college life such as reliable assistance from faculty and staff members, offices dedicated to financial aid and student services and of course, an active social life.
Students are encouraged to utilize the various academic programs available on campus to enrich their college experience. Programs such as the Magellan Project and Honors Programs enable students to build a solid support community amongst themselves – who better to relate to you then your fellow classmates? Outside of the academic sector, students can take advantage of resources such as the Climate Action Plan, volunteer programs and internships that are available through student services. There is always something to get into both on and off campus that truly completed the college experience.
Students that live on campus can enjoy their choice of residence halls or apartment style dorms that are maintained by the Resident Assistants, a team of fellow students that are available to guide you through your college stay.
Financial Aid
Washington & Jefferson College offers a dedicated focus to financial aid and tuition assistance. Faculty and staff members make sure they are readily available to assist students with the financial aid aspect of college experience. Counselors are available to help students and their family members find the right financial aid programs that best suit their needs, as well as submitting the correct paperwork. Washington & Jefferson College accepts traditional FAFSA loans, grants and various scholarship programs as well.
It is not uncommon for Washington & Jefferson College students to receive some type of merit-based financial aid. In fact, all students accepted to the school are automatically considered for a variety of merit-based awards to help alleviate some of the tuition fees and expenses. Washington & Jefferson College offers work study programs that place students in positions on and off campus to help with financial aid as well.
