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Brief History of Washington University

Washington University
Courtesy of WUSTL

Washington University in St. Louis, often referred to as WashU or WUSTL, is a prestigious private research university located in St. Louis. It was founded in 1853 and is consistently ranked among the top universities in the country. Here’s some information about Washington University:

Academic Reputation:

Washington University is renowned for its academic excellence and rigorous programs. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs across a wide range of disciplines, including arts and sciences, engineering, business, law, medicine, and social work. The university is particularly strong in fields like biology, engineering, psychology, business, and economics.

Campus:

Washington University – Danforth Campus

The university’s main campus is located in the residential neighborhood of University City, just west of Forest Park. The campus is known for its beautiful architecture, lush green spaces, and a mix of historic and modern buildings. WashU also has additional campuses in the Central West End area of St. Louis, the Danforth Campus in Clayton, and the School of Medicine campus in the city’s Medical Campus district.

Student Life:

Washington University offers a vibrant and engaging student life experience. There are numerous student organizations, clubs, and extracurricular activities catering to a wide range of interests. The university also hosts various cultural events, performances, and guest lectures throughout the year. The campus has state-of-the-art facilities, including libraries, research centers, student centers, and sports complexes.

Research and Innovation:

WashU is recognized for its contributions to scientific research and innovation. The university has several research centers and institutes that focus on areas such as genomics, neuroscience, engineering, and energy. Students have ample opportunities to engage in research projects alongside faculty members, fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity and discovery.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Washington University is committed to making education accessible to students from diverse backgrounds. The university offers a generous financial aid program and provides merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and work-study opportunities to eligible students. WashU’s commitment to affordability has helped attract a talented and diverse student body.

Community Engagement:

The university actively engages with the local St. Louis community through various outreach programs and initiatives. WashU students and faculty often collaborate with community organizations, volunteering their time and expertise to address social challenges and improve the lives of others.

WashU admissions is extremely selective with an acceptance rate of 13%.
Students that get into WashU have an average SAT score between
1490-1570 or an average ACT score of 33-35.
The regular admissions application deadline for WashU is January 3.

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Notable Alumni:

Washington University boasts a notable alumni network that includes leaders in various fields.

  • Robert L. Behnken
  • Joseph Erlanger
  • David R. Francis
  • Dave Garroway 
  • Robert Guillaume
  • Michael Isikoff
  • Alphonso Jackson
  • Chris Koster
  • J. C. R. Licklider
  • Andrew G. McCabe
  • Jim McKelvey
  • Condé Nast
  • Gyo Obata
  • Harold Ramis
  • Peter Sarsgaard
  • Phyllis Schlafly
  • Jim Talent
  • Rochelle P. Walensky
  • Andrew R. Wheeler
  • Tennessee Williams

Washington University in St. Louis is an esteemed institution known for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation.