On the Fence? Still Weighing Your Options?

Amanda Balaba ’25

“With a liberal arts education, you can explore a broad range of topics that interest you. When I was looking at schools, I knew I wanted to go into business or accounting, but I also didn’t want to sacrifice my interest for the humanities and social sciences by going to a business school. IWU seemed like the best fit for me– I am majoring in Accounting but also taking multiple classes for my Political Science minor. If you want an education where you can study multiple areas, don’t hesitate to choose IWU.”

John Schmidt ’25

“I chose IWU because it is known for preparing students well for what comes next in life, whether that is entering the workforce, grad school or medical school! IWU has you covered. Additionally, when I toured Wesleyan, it felt like home to me which was one of the first signs that Wesleyan was the right choice.”

Laina Chavarria ’25

“IWU will provide you with experiences and opportunities that other universities don’t offer to their students. If you are looking for a place where you can be more than just a student, IWU is the place for you!”

Deliah Zhanguzinova ’26

“IWU raises individuals of a broad range of skills, and provides opportunities to apply learned knowledge to practice right away. If you are looking for a small institution with world-class academic opportunities, IWU is a place for you!”

Haven Ryburn

"I have adored my time at IWU. There is a space for everyone and anyone to feel at home, supported, and thrive in. I think the opportunities offered at IWU truly facilitate growth. My first time on campus, everyone I talked to seemed so genuinely excited for me to be there. I don’t think any other university could match the support I have felt at IWU. So, come and visit. If you want a college experience where you know someone will always be there to mentor, advocate, support, or just listen; I think you’ll find IWU is a perfect fit."

Graduation Year: 2024

Major: Psychology

Haven is on track to graduate in 4 years. 

Evan Quist

"Illinois Wesleyan has such a great environment for learning, and provides a space for students to go above and beyond, even if it's not in the curriculum. Most colleges ask where you want to go, and then tell you how to get there. IWU let's you blaze your own trail, and supports you the whole way."

Graduation Year: 2023

Major: Finance and Computer Science

Evan is on track to graduate in 4 years. This summer, Evan will be interning at Meta at their main office in Menlo Park, CA.

Joey Kiper

"You have to know yourself. Decide if having professors who 'see' you and take an active interest in your growth is important to your process. IWU has small class sizes that create a personable environment for students and professors to interact. You will find accountability, positive support, and attentiveness in the mentors you encounter at Illinois Wesleyan."

Graduation Year: 2022

Major: Biochemistry

Joey is on track to graduate in 4 years. 

Madeleine Hall

"I chose IWU because I kept coming back. In the end I knew it was the place for me because I felt it. Advice I would give would be to make a pro and con list between your two choices. Weight your pros and cons with numbers between 1 and 10. The institution that has the highest numerical value is probably where you should go. It’s also a great tool to find out what you value most, and how each institution satisfies that."

Graduation Year: 2023

Major: Accounting and English - Literature

Madeleine is on track to graduate in 4 years.