Area Introduction

We have assembled some information to help you become familiar with our area and its environment.

1. Weather & Landscape

Wyoming weather is very dry; you will need to use a lot of moisturizing lotion. There is almost no humidity, very little precipitation, and the sun shines almost every day. We have four seasons with cold winters, hot summers, and colorful autumns. But people always say; if you don't like the weather around here, wait a few minutes. In other words, it changes quickly and we can have very mild temperatures, even in January and February, and snow as late as May. Temperatures range from 10ºC to 35ºC.

The landscape is quite beautiful. Wyoming has the lowest population in the United States so there is plenty of space to stretch your arms out, swing around, and not worry about hitting anyone! No matter where you go from Powell, you will see mountains and, often, cows, horses, deer and antelope. And the nights are usually clear enough that when you look up, the whole sky will be filled with stars.

2. Area Maps & Photos

Find more information about the area and view photos and maps here:

• Bighorn Basin Tour
• Powell Tour
• Northwest College Campus Map
• Getting to Powell

3. Diet

Food is often an adjustment when we travel away from our homes and our countries. People in Wyoming tend to eat a lot of meat (beef, pork, and chicken), potatoes, vegetables and salads. It might be difficult to find fresh fish but it is available. The Northwest College Food Service wants all students to stay healthy and to eat well. If you have special dietary needs or preferences, they will do their best to accommodate you. Local and nearby grocery stores have a good selection for a small town. Many people who need special ethnic food items can get them online. Students often like to cook for themselves on weekends or for special occasions.

4. Academic Life

Teaching styles and classroom attitudes vary widely, from lectures to discussion-based seminars. Foreign students often comment that U.S. students are competitive but not very hard-working and that, although classes tend to be informal, professors are often very demanding. It is important for you to know that creativity, tolerance, and flexibility are valued above tradition and respect for authority in the United States. At Northwest College, your professors will be eager to meet with you during their office hours, to answer your questions and to learn more about you. They are friendly and dedicated to their teaching.

5. Small Town America

Powell, Wyoming is a small town with a population of over 5500 people. We have a post office, two movie theaters, many restaurants, two supermarkets, several banks, numerous stores, many churches, and excellent medical facilities. You can walk or bike to most places in town from the college campus. Because the town and college are small, you probably will not meet many other students from your country. You will always have opportunities to speak English, to learn about American culture, and to share your culture with others. You will be special here.

What some of our international students say about life in Powell:

• I like it here. I think it is a good place to study. People are kind and not so hurried.
• Fresh air, safe, there are not so many people, people are pure.
• Everybody knows each other.
• People in Powell are very friendly and nice. If your car is broken, don't worry. People stop and ask you if you want help. Here, it is much safer than in a big city.
• Close to nature; open views of mountains and trees; near Yellowstone Park.
• A small town is a safe environment.