Campus Life & Resources
Resources
Western offers students and scholars a range of excellent resources administered by supportive staff. New Student Services provides links to many of the offices and services that you may want to access after your arrival on campus.
And if you’re not quite sure which service you need or have questions about where to turn, please contact ISSS– we’re happy to point you in the right direction!
Clubs
US students are also very active and engaged outside the classroom. The AS Club Activities Office offers all Western Students the opportunity to make the most of their college experience by getting involved in organizations that speak to their interests, passions, academic pursuits, identities, goals for social change, and more. From A Cappella to Quidditch, these clubs cover just about every academic, cultural, religious, political, recreational, or social interest and are a great way to connect with fellow students. And if you can’t find the club you’re interested in, you can always start one up! Visit the Western Involvement Network to find a club or event of interest!
Outdoor Activities
The Associated Students Outdoor Center provides a variety of outdoor-related opportunities and activities for all students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Resources include a knowledgeable staff, equipment rentals, bike shop, excursions, educational resources, and instructional clinic. If you're looking to explore the natural beauty around Bellingham, try out a new sport like snowshoeing, ice climbing, kayaking or white water rafting, or learn more about the ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest, the Outdoor Center is the place to go!
WWU offers two unique outdoor activity facilities for use by students and staff. Lakewood,on Lake Whatcom, offers sailboat, canoe, and kayak rentals for a minimal fee. The site also features a cabin with meeting lounge and fireplace, sand volleyball court, picnic tables, and barbecues.
And if you're feeling really adventurous, organize a trip out to Viqueen Lodge a university-owned cabin on Sinclair Island that offers accommodation for up to ten people. Students and staff can reserve the lodge for a minimal fee, but must also arrange their own private transportation as there are no public ferries to the island. Viqueen's off-the-beaten-track location and minimal amenities make it a true escape.
Sports
Varsity Sports
Western has 15 varsity sports teams which compete against other colleges and universities in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) under the authority of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Attending a sporting event is a great American college experience and cheering on the Vikings is a fun way to show your school spirit! Tickets are $3 for Western students, faculty, and staff. See the WWU Athletics site for schedules and more information.
Club Sports
Western also has a number of club sports teams which are student-run and compete against club teams from other schools. Some of these teams are very competitive, while others are more recreational. All are open to new members and joining a club team is a great way to make friends from across the university. For more information see the club teams FAQ.
Intramural Sports
Intramural (from the Latin “within walls”) sports take place on (or near) the Western campus as students, faculty, and staff form their own recreational teams and compete against each other. Intramural sports encourage participation by people of all abilities and stress the personal development and social aspects of sports. See Campus Recreation Services for more information on how to register.
Recreation Center
Membership to the Wade King Student Recreation Center is included in tuition fees for students enrolled for 6 or more credits – just bring your Western Card to get in! The Rec Center offers a range of equipment and facilities as well as fitness classes, personal training, and nutrition consultation.
Arts
The College of Fine and Performing Arts (CFPA) offers nearly 300 performances, special presentations, and gallery events each year. Sign up for their “This Week in the Arts” newsletter for the latest news and events.
The Western Gallery provides diverse experiences in the visual arts. Admission is free.
And of course, the nationally famous Outdoor Sculpture Collection can be found all over the campus.
