Real Parties: PSU isn't known for massive, raging parties like some other colleges. The party scene is more dispersed and less centralized around Greek life than you might find at a larger, more residential campus. There are house parties, some events at bars and clubs frequented by students, and occasional larger events organized by student groups. But expect it to be less of a "campus-wide" party atmosphere and more of a mix of smaller gatherings and individual choices.
Greek Life: PSU has Greek life, but it's not as dominant or pervasive as at some other universities. While fraternities and sororities exist and hold events, they don't define the social scene to the same extent. You'll find plenty of students who are not involved in Greek life and have thriving social circles.
Likes about PSU:
* Location: Being in downtown Portland is a huge plus. Students have easy access to a vibrant city with amazing food, culture, and job opportunities. Internships and part-time jobs are readily available.
* Diversity: PSU boasts a diverse student body, reflecting the city's own multifaceted population.
* Academic Programs: PSU offers a strong range of academic programs, particularly in areas like urban studies, business, and engineering.
* Smaller Class Sizes (sometimes): While it's a large university, you can often find smaller class sizes, especially in upper-division courses.
* Progressive Atmosphere: Portland and PSU share a generally progressive and open-minded atmosphere.
Dislikes about PSU:
* Campus Feel: Because it's spread out and integrated with the city, PSU might lack the traditional "college campus" feel some students crave. It can feel less cohesive than a more self-contained campus.
* Limited On-Campus Housing: PSU has less on-campus housing compared to many universities, meaning many students commute or find housing off-campus. This can be expensive in Portland.
* Homelessness: As PSU is located in a major city, students will encounter homelessness more visibly than at many other universities. This can be a challenging aspect of the campus environment.
* Parking: Parking in downtown Portland is notoriously expensive and difficult to find.
Ultimately, whether you'll like PSU depends on your preferences. If you thrive in a bustling city environment and prefer a less intensely focused Greek life scene, you might love it. If you prefer a traditional campus experience with a strong Greek life presence and readily available on-campus housing, you might find it less appealing. Visiting the campus and talking to current students would be highly recommended before making a decision.