Student Perspectives

"I chose Westminster because it catered to all areas of my life. Not only are there plenty of sports to be involved in, tons of majors to choose from (or create!), but also the numerous clubs offered allow you to be involved in just about any interest you have."


"When I visited Westminster, I went to vespers on Sunday night. The senior student's message was the parable of the sower. She spoke about the seeds being all the same, but the environment in which they were placed was what made the difference. It became clear that I had found the right environment for me."


"After several changes of major I have found the right one for me, as well as professors who challenge and hone my literary and composition ability. The strongest aspect of Westminster is the host of organizations available for students to participate in and find their own home away from home."


"The first time I visited Westminster I was being taken on a tour of Hoyt by a professor when we ran into a student sitting outside a lab. The professor said that he hadn't had the student in class yet, but the professor knew him by name and had no problem letting him into the lab even though it was a Sunday. I decided then that this was the kind of relationship I wanted from my professors."


"Westminster turned out to be the perfect fit for me. I've had the opportunity to try a lot of new things, from Gospel Choir and Ultimate Frisbee to touring the United Kingdom for a class. My professors are very helpful and flexible, but still challenging. I've grown a lot here."


"I chose Westminster because it is a beautiful campus in a small town where everybody seems to know everybody. It makes you feel like you are a part of something. Westminster also allows you to make up your own major. This gives you the freedom to pick and choose what is best for you."


"Westminster has opened many doors for me. It has allowed me to complete research at the UPMC's Neurosurgical Research Department and the Medical Technologies lab at Carnegie Mellon's Robotics Institute the past two summers. These experiences along with Westminster have helped me to gain invaluable research experiences and confidence in myself."


"I chose Westminster because of the friendly atmosphere. Everyone says hi even if they don't know you. I feel right at home here!"


"I chose to attend Westminster College because they were willing to accept my goals for a double major, and were willing to work with me to help me achieve those goals. Westminster was also able to help me financially which enabled me to attend college."


"Westminster is the perfect blend of culture, academics, and athletics. Its beautiful campus and welcoming atmosphere make it even more accommodating."


"I chose Westminster College for basically two reasons. The first is because of the school's small size and that it was close enough to home, but far enough away. The other reason was for its academic reputation."


"I chose Westminster because of its friendly atmosphere. I just feel at home here. The moment I visited the campus I knew it was for me. With the low (12:1) student-to-faculty ratio and the friendly staff, I knew I could excel not only in the classroom, but in life."


"I chose Westminster partly because of the incredibly personable and approachable administration and faculty. At Westminster, you're a name, and everybody knows your name. You may not talk to a certain person, but chances are that they know your name."


"Westminster is like your favorite hoodie (hooded sweatshirt), it has some stains and wear marks, but that just gives it character and more memories. It is a place that takes care of you with comfort and keeps you warm, and you wish more people had the chance to wear it or experience it."


"I chose Westminster because it felt like home. Greeted by strangers and amazed at my beautiful surroundings, I walked around campus and knew immediately that this would be where I would spend the next four years of my life!"


"I chose Westminster College because of the student-to-faculty ratio and its strong education program that is nationally known. The small campus is friendly and it provides students with numerous options to get involved in the college and community!"


"I chose Westminster because it just fit. From the academics, to the clubs, to the beautiful campus, and even the right distance from home, it was all perfect. I am so happy that I chose to come here, because so far I love it!"


"Before even deciding on Westminster, I was contacted personally by a student and asked to join an organization on campus. I felt extremely welcomed and 'wanted' by the school as an individual and not just a number who pays tuition."


"Westminster has a unique and comfortable atmosphere. There are excellent professors, who sincerely want to know you and aid you along in the learning process. Plus, there is a never ending list of activities and groups to become involved in. It's an amazing place to grow and learn each day."


"I didn't choose Westminster, but God chose it for me. I got to have lunch with the faculty and talk about the courses available for my majors. I also spoke with an alum about the College, who is perhaps the best teacher I had in high school. Myriad other circumstances led me to believe that God was leading me toward Westminster. I have never regretted that choice."


"I chose Westminster because of the small campus environment. The faculty and staff here treat you like you are a part of the family; not like you're just another student here. I like to be called 'Brendan,' not Student No. 1675-1."


"I chose Westminster because of the smaller class sizes. I like the fact that the professors know you on a first name basis and that if you need any help, they are always willing to make the time to see you outside of class!"


"From the moment I stepped foot onto the Westminster campus, I was greeted with smiling faces and the genuine compassion this institution has to offer. From my very first day, I have felt as though this is home."


"I chose Westminster because it was one of the only colleges that I could actually see myself attending. People are always outside playing sports and studying on our beautiful campus when the weather is nice. Once you visit, you will definitely want to come back for good!"


"Westminster creates well rounded individuals prepared for life after college by providing opportunities for all students to excel academically, athletically, socially, and spiritually."


"I chose Westminster because it is able to provide me with many opportunities to grow and become a leader."


"Westminster is the ideal college because its challenging academics and friendly atmosphere create an environment where students are driven to succeed."


"Westminster has given me the opportunity to participate in many different activities and grow as a leader."


"I chose Westminster because of its academic excellence and friendly atmosphere."


"Westminster's Titan Tradition and excellent sports teams teach dedication and perseverance that has taught me what it really means to be a well rounded student."


"What really attracted me to Westminster was the dedication that the professors show to the students. Professors go out of their way to make sure students excel."


"Westminster is like 'Cheers' --everybody knows your name."


"Westminster's relationship with the community gives students the opportunity to become involved in the community as well as on campus."


"I chose Westminster because of its friendly atmosphere. Since Westminster is small, you take classes with the same people, and become friendly with them. The professors are always there to help. It's nice to go to school where you can feel like you know a lot of people, and you aren't lost in the crowd."


"When I first came to Westminster I was drawn in by its beautiful campus. It has an atmosphere of happiness and you could go up to anyone and they would greet you as if you had been friends for years. You can't find many schools with qualities like these."


"Westminster has such a hands-on, exciting psychology program. When meeting with the professors during my senior year of high school, they just seemed so excited and alive about psychology. It piqued my interest and ended up causing me to come to Westminster!"


"I chose Westminster because of its strong reputation in both academics and extra-curricular activities. Small classrooms and intimate learning environments have pushed me to think and see learning in new and diverse ways. On the college swim team, I have had the opportunity to continue to pursue one of my passions."


"I chose Westminster because it is the ideal place for me to succeed. Westminster provides me with the strong Christian environment, challenging academics, music opportunities, friendly people, and fun activities that I need to succeed."


"Westminster was far enough to get away, but close enough to be home. It gave me a sense of comfort and was similar to my hometown, so it became a home away from home. I could participate in sports, grow spiritually through Bible small groups, and get to know people more closely."


"During my first days of class I realized that, here, people smile and say hello when they pass, even if they do not know one another. It is a great comfort to live and learn in such a wonderful, kind-hearted environment where the students and faculty know you by name."


"I chose Westminster because it offered something that other colleges I attended didn't. I feel peaceful walking around campus, and the professors are always here for me. Every aspect of Westminster I like and appreciate, and I know the College will only improve as the years go on."


"I chose Westminster because I was captivated as soon as I came to campus. I was impressed with all of the faculty that I came in contact with, as well as the students. Westminster opened its arms to me as my home away from home with an excellent education program. I wouldn't change my decision of coming to Westminster for anything."


"Westminster's study abroad opportunities cater to curious students and provide education on an international level. Thanks to the Westminster at Oxford program, I learned more about the world and my place in it than I ever could have learned by taking notes at a desk."


"You can feel a real sense of community as soon as you step onto campus, and I was right. Everyone is so supportive and it's pretty hard NOT to be involved in something here!"


"I transferred to Westminster after the fall of my freshman year. I feel that the choice I made to come here was among the best I have ever made in my life. The challenge the professors in the religion department put on their students truly makes them learn as much as possible."


"I chose this school because the music program awed me! My experience visiting last fall was a major deciding factor in choosing Westminster -- as was the Young Presbyterian Scholarship, and what I learned about that program. Overall, I'd say that it only takes one visit to Westminster to realize what an amazing school this is."


"When I chose Westminster, the key factors that played a part in my decision were the fact that I love the small town atmosphere and the Dance Theatre program, as well as the opportunity to be involved in some wonderful organizations on campus. The choice to come to Westminster was rather easy!"


"Westminster is the school for me because it is a college that has the academic, extracurricular, and social realms that I enjoy. Everything started with the campus visit, when it felt great to be here; the greatness continues with my classes, my professors, and all of my campus involvements."


"The Westminster at Oxford program is such a rare study abroad program. I traveled to six countries and had the time of my life. The faculty and students formed a tight bond. Even now, a year later, Dr. Perkins still invites us to his house just get together and reminisce. You won't find that sincere faculty involvement anywhere else."


"I chose Westminster because the broadcasting department is all about hands-on learning. There are so many opportunities to get involved, starting your first semester. You will be better prepared here than at almost any other college for your future job."


"The people at Westminster amaze me with their friendliness. Walking through the freshmen dorm, Shaw, is such a pick-me-up because no one hesitates to greet each familiar face time and time again. We're all looking out for each other."


"Since the first time that I walked onto the campus, I knew that I wanted to be a Westminster College student. Westminster College offers students a great, well-rounded education in a peaceful and academic environment."


"When I first came to Westminster, it was just my second choice, so I was sure I would transfer within a year. It becomes more than just a school though. It's a home, and the people become family. I don't even want to graduate anymore - I'd rather stay forever."


"What keeps me at Westminster? It's the amazing professors who care and aren't bothered that I ask so many questions. And it's the lifelong friends I've already made even though I've only been here for two months!"


"One day I was talking to my grandma via phone and she informed me that Westminster was a beautiful college. Time passed. I took a tour and agreed with her."


"I love it here! From the moment I stepped onto campus as a high school senior and Westminster prospective student, I realized that this was the college for me. I have already made relationships that I know will develop into lifelong friendships. I don't think that would be possible at a school that had too many people. I really like the size and location of Westminster. Basically, as far as I am concerned, it's perfect for me!"


"I chose Westminster because during my visits students and faculty were always so open and friendly. The beauty of the campus and its smallness were also major factors in my decision. Now, over a year later, I can't imagine myself anywhere else. I know I made the right decision."


"I chose Westminster for the hands-on experience and the personal attention students receive. At Westminster, I found that I'm more than just another student, and the professors here help you to reach your full potential."


"I love the class size here at Westminster. I feel that you get more one-on-one opportunities with your professors and you have a better learning experience. Even if I wanted to skip class I would feel bad because I know my professors so well I would feel as if I was letting them down."


"I transferred from Penn State main campus last spring. I chose Westminster because there is more student-faculty interaction. You don't have to stand in line in order to ask a professor a question after class. The small town atmosphere is friendlier and the faculty is focused on helping you to succeed."


"I first chose Westminster College because it has a great elementary education program. However, I stayed at Westminster because the Oxford study abroad program was started. I went to Oxford, England, in the fall of my sophomore year. I became bicultural and found who I really was."


"I chose Westminster because of the comfortable environment I experienced when I toured. I was impressed by the faculty I met during my visit and was encouraged to pursue my goals."


"I chose Westminster College because of how friendly everyone is! The first time I walked around campus, everyone said 'hi!' to me and wanted to know more about me. This was a relief and proved to me that Westminster is comprised of extremely friendly students, professors, and staff."


"I chose Westminster because it felt like home. Everyone on campus, faculty and students, are so friendly and willing to help you. The faculty truly wants you to succeed and will help ensure that you do."


"Westminster provides an individualized education with small classes, dedicated professors who think of you as more than a number and make themselves available to all students, an advisor who you know AND who knows you by name, and extra-curricular activities for every interest with opportunities to be a leader."


"I chose Westminster because the college is a good size and clean; the students and faculty are very nice; a high quality education is offered; and I liked the girl-to-guy ratio."


"I chose Westminster because I value the one-on-one connection that I have with my professors. Here they know you by name, as opposed to a larger university where they know you by a number. I also love this campus. It's small and homey. The people here make me feel so welcome and remind me that I have come to the right place and I belong here."


"I love studying at Westminster because it provides me with a friendly, safe campus, intelligent, caring faculty, and countless opportunities to get involved with anything from musicals and plays, to student government and campus diversity. It's a great place to learn lessons and make friends that will last a lifetime."