University of Puget Sound
Reviews

Quite Spacious

The dorm rooms are bigger than average, and they never try to fit one more person in that shouldn't be there. Rarely do I have to wait for the washer and dryers, and I have NEVER had to wait for a shower. We have plenty of room and they are all located basically in the middle of campus.

Great

I had a great time in the dorms, campus is small and it's nice to live right in the heart

Not the Greatest

Off campus houses are not that much better than on campus - all the best ones get snatched up the fastest and are often too expensive. Landlords can create bidding wars and not all the houses are that great. Some don't even have basic things, like closets, for example.

Housing

Dorms aren't too bad, much bigger than a state school dorm. Don't plan on using the kitchens because they are generally pretty messy. Te housing lottery in later years can be stressful when trying for a house. I believe it is cheaper to rent a house than going through the lottery.

Computer

We have 2 computer labs in the library. 1 PC, 1 Mac. 1 PC lab in the business building and another Mac lab in the science building. Printing is free. Wifi is fast in the library. I prefer to do hw using the library computers, but it is just as common to use a personal computer. The library lab is always crowded at midterms and finals.

Lack of Sun

The rain is beautiful, but when the sun is out walking to the sound would be much more delightful. And more sun would brighten the mood to be sure.

Living on Campus

Living on campus is nice because everything is within a close proximity due to the small campus size. This social atmosphere around campus is nice, but I do wish there was more diversity within the student population.

Good Stuuf

There is the Met, which is a little more expensive, but still good. Safeway which is where everyone buys their food. A bunch of cheap places to grab a quick bite

Security

I have never felt threatened on campus, however there have been a lot of theft in the pool locker rooms and in the dorms. Theft seems to be a big problem on this campus and it seems like there is nothing really done to improve it or stop it from happening. Other than that I have not had a problem with safety on campus

Parking Is OK

Plenty of friends with cars and there are enough spaces for them to drive to classes if they want to. Campus is small so you don't really need a car. If you're living off campus it's nice to have one to get groceries.

Acceptance at UPS

Large/supportive atmosphere for the religious, atheists, LGBT, Hawaiin culture--an accepting school though not exceptionally diverse.

UPS Greek Life

It's not a huge part of campus life. Not being part of a Frat myself, I can't speak for the feel of being part of one, but outside of them, it is clear that members actively do things, but aren't a huge presence on campus.

Superior

Combining academics, athletics, living style, social life, on and off campus dining. Puget Sound is where it's at.

Off-Campus Dining

The off-campus dining options are okay considering the diversity in Tacoma. Coming from San Francisco, I am used to a larger variety of restaurants and types of foods. Most places are relatively affordable. Most places also offer take out, but no delivery. So without a car, some places are more difficult to get to.

House Parties

Get your close friends together for a potluck/feast then go to a bigger house party and dance. Bars are super close so walk to 6th street you can hear dueling pianos at Jazz Bones, karaoke at E9 and dance the night away at Masa

Accessibility

Its very easy to get involved in almost any activity, whether it be student government or different clubs. It is also fairly easy to get a decent paying on campus job that will revolve around your school schedule. There are many accommodations for students who are struggling academically as well.

As Long as You Don't Get Caught...

The policy is fairly strict if you actually get caught with alcohol in your hand, but campus security is relatively light (they certain;y won't interfere with anyone unless they have reason too). The dorms are the same way: don't attract attention, and you won't have any problems.

Pretty Homogeneous Population

The campus is made up of mostly white students that have a high socioeconomic status, although many of them like to think of themselves as being poor and having difficult lives.

Great Prices but Not Accessible.

The parking is horrible in the middle of the day, with no spots even on the streets. However the free passes are great.

Good, Could Use Some Work

Given that it is a small campus there is not much to do or roam around. But it is beatiful and the buildings are all fairly new

Transportation Options

I don't drive... I only walk around here because I live close to campus. I feel like there are only street parking for off-campus students like me, which can be a hassle and bothersome. There are few parking lots around campus and they tend to fill up quickly, especially near the SUB.

Campus Strictness

I don't have a problem with the rules at this school affecting my academic or social life.

Library

The library at University of Puget Sound is great! It provides great workspace and an excellent environment to study in!

gym

The gym is sometimes crowded at peak hours when the sports teams are lifting together. They should have two different gyms, although they have started to expand.

Safe Feeling

On campus, you feel very safe and secure. The surrounding area is good too, however, it is Tacoma so crime and theft are high. make sure to travel in groups at night.