10 questions about WashU...

flashmountain
Mon, 25 Apr 2011 00:19:22 +0000

wulfran:

Has anybody else mentioned WashU, actually recited the whole name, and then been asked where it was anyway? I feel worried about humankind when I think about this…



I’m from an area out east that sends a lot of people to Wash U. In my high school and towns nearby, Wash U is one of those “it” schools. When asked the question “where did you apply to colleges,” Wash U is mentioned along with the Ivies with a straight face. Some other areas of the east coast are similar, and I’m sure most of the midwest is… but you will, admittedly, have a higher proportion of blank stares in some areas of the country than others. Then again, do you plan to work in New Mexico? May not even matter if you went to Harvard in some places. St Louis residents think Wash U is Harvard. Not Harvard of the midwest… but, legitimately, think it is Harvard.

I’ve been given a blank stare by a couple extended family members, but they are people that also couldn’t tell you if Brown was an Ivy. Honestly, these occasions can be nice, as there is no judgment coming from the person when you mention your college’s name. Brings you down to earth. I like that about Wash U.

When you are talking to students from other top colleges (and increasingly “regular” colleges), graduate schools, companies, recruiters, etc - Wash U is recognized as an elite school.