The classes at the University of Washington (Seattle campus) can range from being small to big, depending on what class, the popularity, and also if it's a core class. Depending on the size, the professor may or may not know your name or even recognize you. If it's a big class for instance, Concert Season (It's a musical class, probably one of my favorites) it's most likely the professor will not remember your name or even what you look like if you sit far away, but if you attend class everyday and raise your hand and say something a few times, I'm sure that they will remember you. In small classes, the professor will remember your face and know your name and that's what I love.
But let's talk a little bit more of the students and a little bit less on the class size. The students here are either really studious or just... average. Some of those average kids however, I don't know how, do better than those who study most of their time. It just depends on the person. That also determines the participation, competitiveness, and conversations that take place inside/outside class. There are your usual shy kids that probably never raise their hands or speak in class. Then there are the kids that sit in the back and then the kids who sit at the very front. Those who sit in the front usually participate in class, but I think over the years they're starting to mingle and people are just sitting wherever now. Class participation doesn't seem to be much of a problem in any of the classes I've had as some classes, if you didn't do the reading or study, you would get called on and well, some shy people have a lot of meaningful things to say. Honestly I wish they would speak up and answer more questions but most don't. I've learned that they're really fun to hang out with outside of class though and when it comes to talking about the homework and topics for class, they're great. I believe it's just being put on the spotlight that gets to some of them but overtime they adapt and the classroom atmosphere becomes lively as ever. Competitiveness stems from this lively atmosphere. Though they may be competitive, it does not mean in any way that they are heartless. They will help those who need it, even if it means they are helping their rival.
These stories, however, are coming from an English major. I love classes that involve reading, writing, and communication with other people. The people in my classes/department are very intelligent and when it comes to topics about history, books, or anything, there's also a very interesting and intellectual conversation. I contribute most of my learning and conversation skills however, to my professors. Speaking with the professor about things you don't understand, is a great way to learn and bond. I love professors who want to regularly gauge how the class is going and then afterwards, slow down or speed up the course. I can't say much about the other majors or departments, but judging from my friends who are in those departments, they're happy to be there and I'm sure they would say the same things I am saying about my own department: once you find a department you like to study, you will find that the people there are people you like to be with.
The schools academic requirements are, reasonable and very well built. However, there are some times where you can't get into the classes you want or need, but the professors will almost, always let you know if there's space available if you just go and ask, or even if you email them. The advisers and counselors are always there to help you if you get lost, and the best part is that most of the are on a drop-in basis so between classes if you have a break, just go in and say hi. They're just like the professors and, with regular visits, will remember your name and face. The education at the university, will, depending on your choices, get you a great job at Boeing or Microsoft, or it will land you in an intellectual conversation with Bill Gates or even the president of the United States. Depending on how you choose to study and go about your way in college will determine your pathway. The university offers all the resources and facilities that you need to succeed. If you choose correctly what you want to do, you can even, do both: Work at a prestigious company and also have the opportunity to speak with a famous and prestigious person.