I've encountered bright UO undergrads, most happen to be studying Computer Science, Accounting, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Math, etc. The honors college has an incoming SAT range comparable to top 50 national schools. Yes, many mediocre and unmotivated students attend UO as well. As far as the instructors, professors, and PhD teaching fellows I've encountered, they are for the most part high-quality, well-published, competent, and ranging from decent to brilliant at actual teaching. Academia is competitive enough and the Northwest as pleasant enough locale that even the 100th best national Uni can hire top talent.