Here at WashU, we encourage students to be intentional about their leadership, academic, and professional development during their time on campus. CliftonStrengths is a tool designed to answer the question: “What would happen if we studied what was right with people versus what’s wrong with people?” It is meant to measure 34 themes of talent (also referred to as Strengths). After taking the assessment, individuals are presented with their top five themes. These themes represent ways in which the individual naturally operates and are the focus of the CliftonStrengths system.
The individualized Top 5 report provides actionable advice to help them succeed by outlining strategies that can be utilized to support personal, academic, and career success. Through taking the inventory or participating in one of our workshops, activities, or coaching, students can:
| Develop better study habits – By identifying what energizes students, they can reframe their study habits to create a more rewarding experience! |
| Contribute to group projects and extracurricular activities – The Top 5 report helps students see how their talents work with others, helping them identify how to work as part of a team. |
| Set and achieve goals – Utilizing their talents, students can identify clear paths to accomplishing their goals. |
What is CliftonStrengths?
Watch this quick intro to CliftonStrengths – why we all have talents, and how BLA supports your journey.
Ready to Explore Your Top 5?
Curious about your Strengths? The best way to discover them is by taking the official CliftonStrengths assessment – and we’re here to help you get started.
Through a Strengths facilitation, you’ll:
✅ Take the Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment
✅ Receive your personalized Top 5 Strengths
✅ Meet 1:1 with a certified coach to unpack what it means for you
Top Strengths at WashU
Class of 2028 Top 5:
Relator
Empathy
Achiever
Learner
Developer
Class of 2029 Top 5:
Relator
Achiever
Learner
Empathy
Developer
WashU Top 5:
Relator
Achiever
Learner
Developer
Empathy
Dive into Strengths Resources
How We Support You
Workshops
Participate in workshops to explore how your Strengths shape your experience at WashU and beyond
Leadership Coaching
Meet with a Strengths Coach to learn more about how to apply your Top 5 Strengths to your personal, professional, and academic goals
Where You’ll See Strengths on Campus
Many areas across campus use Strengths, too! Each one incorporates it in different ways – whether in leadership development, student employment, or even the classroom. The more you explore your Strengths, the more you’ll notice how they show up in daily life at WashU.
Look for Strengths in places like:
🏡 Residence Hall Living
🧑🤝🧑 Student Organizations & Leadership
💼 Career Counseling
📚 Academic Advising
Connect & Stay Updated
Get ongoing insights, events, and Strengths inspiration.