Western Washington University is a college in the sleepy town of Bellingham, Wash. The town can best be described as quirky, with its interesting restaurants, unique traditions and absolutely stunning scenery. When a naked bike ride is the one of the more subdued traditions, that’s a clear sign that Bellingham, and WWU in turn, are pretty exciting places. There’s much to be experienced and enjoyed in Bellingham and around Western’s campus. If you have the right mindsets, you can get the most out of this town and your college experience.
1. A sense of adventure.
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Going to college is a big change for a lot of people, and it can be pretty daunting. Having a sense of adventure when going to college is kind of a given. It’s a place to have new experiences, try new food, and make new friends. If you're coming to Western, though, a sense of adventure is crucial. The campus and surrounding city are very lively and begging to be explored. Not to mention all the nature and hiking opportunities are abundant around WWU. Bellingham gives a lot of chances to make new memories, and I definitely say seize those moments.
2. A good appetite.
Bellingham is home to a variety of fantastic restaurants -- anything you want, from French crepes to Russian dumplings. Although having a good appetite may not be a “mindset,” there are so many delicious places to try, and you’d be a fool not to try them all. Even if international food isn’t your thing, even the burger places, like Boomer’s and Fiamma Burger, are better than the norm. If you’re feeling like desert after all that -- I’ve never had a small portion at any Bellingham restaurant -- you can head down to Mallard's, a restaurant located in the downtown area. You won’t be able to avoid the ice cream joint for long, and why would you want to?
3. A love of nature.
In Bellingham and on campus, you can’t avoid nature’s beauty, and again, why would you want to? Western’s campus is nestled into the hill that homes the Sehome Arboretum so you don’t have to go far to get that “nature feel.” Campus is also located just minutes from Lake Whatcom and Whatcom Falls, which are fun to explore. Not much further down the road is Larrabee State Park, home to dozens of great hiking trails for people of all skill levels. The Chuckanut Mountains have some wonderful secrets waiting to be discovered. If you’re more of an ocean person, the city of Bellingham is nestled along Bellingham Bay, which can also be seen from Western’s North Campus. Bellingham has a lot of nature to be explored, so on the more materialistic side of things, I’d definitely recommend a good pair of hiking boots.
4. Openness.
Going along with trying new things, being open is big for college kids, or even young adults in general. Be open to experiences and be open to change. It is said that one never changes more or learns more about themselves than in their freshman year of college. I don’t know if that is 100 percent accurate, but it’s definitely not off base. Be open to changes in yourself. Additionally, Western specifically is a very open school that encourages everyone to be themselves and express their ideas. Be open to others and what they have to say, and don’t be afraid to put your own ideas out there. You never know what may inspire you, or who you may inspire!
5. A passion for learning.
This pretty much goes for anyone pursuing a college education, but it needs to be mentioned. When going to Western, or any college, you have to be motivated to learn. If you’re going to college because all your friends did, or you just thought it was the “next step,” you will not be as successful as you could be. College is fun and exciting, but don’t forget that the reason you’re there is to get an education and further your life. Sure, Cs get degrees, but is that really the way you want to approach an education worth thousands of dollars? Pay attention in class, ask questions and find something you’re passionate about. It will make a world of difference.
If you already go to Western, it's likely you possess all or most of these mindsets -- Bellingham changes you, after all.
