Bastyr University Seattle — Attraction in Kenmore

First, I want to say that I've given serious and genuine effort to this school before I writing this review, but after so many experiences in the admissions and interview process in trying to transfer to Bastyr to finish my ND education, I am sincerely alarmed and would not recommend this school to anyone at the moment. I went through serious politics at SCNM (naturopathic med school in AZ) after severe instances of bullying the administration would not address which worsened after my cohort classmate died in a tragic car fire (he feared he was being weeded out) and then an instructor was arrested for child molestation a few weeks after. I had failed an exam that had created an academic dismissal until I found out years later that the professor had her medical license revoked years prior, had endangered the public, had failed a jurisprudence exam, and then was found to be falsifying student grades (which likely happened to me). I had been applying to other schools long before it had gotten this bad at SCNM, and I started to pick up on a very fraudulent theme between the schools to take your money, make promises, but not do good business. In efforts to move forward, I applied to Bastyr and explained my situation honestly taking responsibility for where my weaknesses were but also being very honest about errors made that were not in my control. I found myself easily rejected by this school after I made serious efforts and invested considerably in my med school education. Early on, I received a phone call from Jane Guiltinan on my voice mail that was so hateful that she even said that "we wouldn't even consider you as a student" and nearly laughed that I had applied given my circumstance. I couldn't meet with any of the staff in person and was rejected in person meetings with Jane Guiltinan, Susan Weider, Arianna Staruch, even while Christine Masterson worked considerably to help try to open the door for me with this staff. In a time when women are working hard to step forward, many of these women put serious and detrimental road blocks in the paths of women to succeed. I applied diligently for about four years, each year bringing new evidence to the table that illegal issues had happened at SCNM and that I needed to be considered fairly. I was assertive and persistent. I finally was invited for an interview to Bastyr's San Diego campus in 2015 during a critical masters thesis time only to be interviewed by Tim Schwaiger, who was on my appeals committee for my academic dismissal fight at SCNM. He used the meeting as an intimidating meeting to essentially tell me in person that I would not be admitted even after publishing in the field, performing well, and having taken extra pre-recs for Bastyr. He didn't even care. I had spent hundreds of dollars to fly in, rent a car, and put on hold sick kids I was taking care of to walk into an interview to be blackballed by a doctor on a committee who I never had as an instructor and never knew me personally. I had talked about SCNM in my application, which put him as a conflict of interest to interview with. Not to mention, Bastyr has many old SCNM staff who are bothering potential students/interviewees when they interview. All of this is concerning, and I believe they are intentionally trying to hurt students and potential students in this process. They have clear agendas that are not authentic with with honoring talented potential students, and devalue any prep someone has done to be successful. Do not apply or go to this school at this time. They have not corrected anything in my direction even after numerous attempts to correct the facts, and I am concerned for anyone coming into this school and becoming vulnerable to this culture. This is a serious monetary investment, sacrifice, and it is very edgy emotionally and mentally to be an ND student. These staff members are not helpful but harmful. It simply does not represent what is needed to become a successful ND and the culture is more cut-throat rather than practical, grounded, and empowering...

Bastyr University is a gem among institutions of higher learning, offering a transformative experience for anyone passionate about natural medicine and holistic health. Nestled in the breathtaking natural beauty. The campus is a haven of serenity and inspiration. Surrounded by teaching garden, peaceful trails, and the vibrant ecosystem of the Pacific Northwest it is impossible not to feel connected to nature while studying or visiting the campus

The community at Bastyr is equally remarkable. From the faculty to the students, there is a shared sense of purpose and passion for health, healing, and sustainability. The collaborative and supportive environment fosters deep learning and personal growth, making it feel like more than just a school it is a family of like-minded individuals striving to make a difference.

The food on campus is a standout feature, with an emphasis on nourishing, organic, and sustainably sourced meals that truly reflect the school values. Whether you enjoying a hearty seasonal soup or a vibrant salad loaded with local ingredients, you can feel the care and intention that goes into every bite. The adaptogen beverages served are a delightful bonus, to the espresso based menu, offering a variety of health-enhancing options that keep the mind clear and the body energized.

The leadership at Bastyr, especially Dr. Devin Byrd the president, embodies the spirit of the institution. Their commitment to academic excellence, community well-being, and ecological stewardship is both inspiring and evident in every aspect of the university operations. Dr.Byrd is passionate and dedicated to the University, He is supportive of everyone treating each equally with kindness, grace and gratitude

Bastyr’s location in St. Edward’s Park is the cherry on top. Whether you are meditating in the woods, studying by the peaceful shores of Lake Washington, or simply soaking in the rejuvenating energy of the park, you can only feel grounded and inspired.

Bastyr University is a place where nature and learning come together in perfect harmony, making it an unparalleled setting for personal and professional growth.

Bastyr University is more than a school it is a way of life. If you are seeking an education in natural medicine surrounded by an uplifting community, unparalleled natural beauty, and values that align with holistic health, there is no...

TLDR: If you are a prospective student looking in to Bastyr's counseling program, I urge you to consider applying anywhere else.

My partner's experience over the past year has been nothing but absolutely insulting and degrading, to the point of blatant racism (He was called "too white" to be in the program by a student, and he was written up for it by faculty without warning.) and sexism from faculty and select students alike. While most of his cohorts were supportive of him, it was mainly the faculty that made it their mission to remove him because "his beliefs did not align with how [they] view the profession." In other words, they simply didn't like him. Through various faculty complaints of enthusiasm for the program being construed as "violence" (he smacked a table and raised his voice in enthusiasm) and fear of being expelled as "refusal to participate" (he eventually tried to withdraw and give students "space to speak" per the faculty's request and, again, was written up for it), and other nonsensical concerns, he was ultimately drawn into a corner where he was told to, quite literally, "Say nothing, but don't be silent." Have fun understanding that vague statement, because we sure did.

To the staff who have gladly taken our hard earned money only to turn away a student who was proud and eager to learn to help and counsel people through hard times. Dan Rosen, Caitlin Dzikon, Sondra Beres, and Danielle Ung specifically, take heart in knowing that you have ruined, at least, my faith in therapy with your actions and that you have taken away my partner's time with our newborn daughter, and only child, so that he could attend your classes. He will never get that back, and I will hold you all in disdain for that. It personally makes me ill that you are teaching these students to only match what you believe, especially in something so broad as mental wellness.

To prospective students, one last time, please save your time and money as these people simply do not want your enthusiasm. Only your money and confusion.

UPDATE: So not only has the university silently declared him expelled, but they also put this review hidden from view. Boosting for...