Let’s hear from Aneli, a first generation college senior majoring in exercise science from Hillsboro, Oregon. Western is a place where many first generation and diverse college students feel comfortable attending because of the tailored support and services they receive, which helps them reach new heights in their academic career. Tell us more, Aneli.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. When deciding on the right college for myself, I knew I wanted to be close enough to home to visit family often, but also feel like I was away at college. Western was the perfect location for that. I was also drawn to the smaller class sizes and the walkability of campus. I remember being told as a freshman that by joining student clubs and organizations or whatever interests me will help me make great connections with others. Being a senior, I can now attest to that, whether that was at the Rec Center, through clubs, volleyball, or my on-campus jobs, one being at the Freedom Center where I’m currently serving as one of the co-directors, I have made lasting connections I will always cherish. Being a first generation college student, working at the Freedom Center has become something I’m very passionate about, because being a fully student-led organization, I get to help other students going through the same thing I was going through a couple years ago. The Freedom Center is an incredible resource for students. It provides students an array of services, from free school supplies, peer-to-peer advising, class scheduling help, connections with other clubs through our events, to an overall safe space for students, especially those who are BIPOC and have intersectional identities. The main goal is to help students succeed and feel supported. Western has given me the opportunity to find my true interests, pursue my passions, and grow as a leader. To my fellow first generation college students, know that there are many others going through the same things as you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and get involved. I promise it’s worth it. You will find your family here. Western is where you belong. Back to you, Alex.
– Aneli, thank you for detailing a few of the amazing resources students have access to. Western is definitely a place where students of all backgrounds can attend confidently and know that they will be supported throughout their entire college journey. Your work at the Freedom Center is an important part of preserving Western’s focus on diverse and first generation students. Thanks again.
Let’s hear from Hunter, a graduate student from Portland, Oregon. Western is a place for students to grow as leaders and offers many leadership opportunities. Associated students of Western Oregon offers incredible opportunities for students to grow in leadership. Tell us more, Hunter.
– Thanks, Alex. I knew I wanted to study to become a teacher so I could be there for my students, just like my teachers were there for me, so I decided to come to Western and study to become a math teacher so I can invest in my students’ future. The high quality math program at Western has allowed me to study many different areas in math while also preparing me for student teaching. Western also has incredible student leadership opportunities. The WOU Crew, Destination Western, Discover Leadership, and the Associated Students of Western Oregon University are among many campus organizations that foster leadership skills and are programs that I have been a part of. The highlight of my experience at Western is definitely serving within the Associated Students of Western. I’ve been working in student government now for about three years, starting off as their director of visual communications, then serving as their student body vice president, and finally getting elected as the student body president, being the first graduate student to ever hold that role. As president, I’ve been able to help plan many successful campus-wide events. I’ve served at the state representative for higher education, I’ve raised 500 pounds of food in one week, and have also helped start the process of campus-wide composting. Associated Students of Western is fully student run and funded. It is designed to represent students and is tasked with advocating for all student rights, coordinating programming, overseeing clubs, and representing student interests to continue to ensure students have a rich student experience. Something I struggle with is believing in myself. I often catch myself thinking, can I do this? Am I capable? My one piece of advice is to have the guts to never give up. Western helps you find your confidence and your ability to succeed, so come to Western and find yourself. Take it back, Alex.
– Hunter, thank you for illuminating the opportunities for students to get involved in leadership roles at Western and how the student government is vital to ensure students continue to have a rich college experience. Thanks again.
Let’s hear from Keisha. She’s a junior at Western majoring in American Sign Language from Aberdeen, Washington. She transferred here to major in Western’s renowned American Sign Language Program. Since she’s transferred, she’s discovered Western’s thriving American Sign Language Club, where she’s been able to strengthen her signing skills and learn what it takes to be an interpreter. Tell us more, Keisha.
– Thanks, Alex. Growing up in the small town of Aberdeen, Washington, I always knew I wanted to go away for college and see what the world had to offer. In high school, I knew I wanted to start my career path at Western Oregon University. After I graduated, I decided to stay home and attend a community college to get my associate degree. After that is when I started my journey at Western. Switching to university life after community college was a bit of an adjustment, but with the vibrant campus life, I quickly adapted and found a great community. Wonderful staff and fellow students helped me to get on the right track and ensured I had the support I needed as a transfer student. Western definitely gave me a warm welcome and helped me get to where I am today. The deaf life on campus is amazing, too. There’s a club for American Sign Language, deaf staff, and plenty of opportunities to sign in and out of class. I’ve really enjoyed being able to improve my signing skills, learn what it takes to be an interpreter, and seeing the perspective of deaf people firsthand. It’s amazing how interactive the deaf and Signing communities are on campus. I’ve enjoyed learning what it takes to be an interpreter and seeing the world through deaf eyes. With Western’s help, I was able to follow my passion. I’ve also learned more about myself, discovered who I am, and fallen in love with other passions I never knew I had. I’ve learned that I love to dance, am capable of making friends, and have a passion for gender studies. Westerners has also helped me find out that I’m really good with student leadership positions despite being shy. Well, that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Keisha, thank you for highlighting the opportunity for students to participate in Western’s renowned American Sign Language Program and to see the world through a different lens. Following your passions and finding your footing after transferring to Western from another university resonates with many, many other students. Western also provides students with many opportunities to discover hidden passions and talents. Thanks again for sharing your story.
Let’s hear from Justin, a transfer student athlete in track and field. Western is the only public university in Oregon to provide their student athletes with opportunities to compete in NCAA Division II Athletics as part of the Great Northwest Athletic Conference. This is part of what makes Western stand out. Tell us more, Justin.
– Thanks, Alex, and hi, everyone. As a student athlete that started college before the pandemic, I’ve had a very wild ride in my college career. I transferred from the West Coast to Western to pursue my education in physical therapy while competing in track and field. Being a lifelong athlete attracted me to the competitive athletic conference Western’s a part of, but Western has also taught me critical skills, which has helped me approach situations differently. I’ve also been able to work at a Student Wellness Center, which has allowed me to experience a variety of challenges that I’ve learned and grown from. I’ve also enjoyed being surrounded by different cultural backgrounds within my team, class, and at work, which has changed all aspects of my life. Being introduced to new ideas and experiences is what Western does best is, it’s what I’ve taken a heart personally. Being a track and field athlete here has been a blessing. From amazing coaching staff, facilities, and athletic training., it has not compared to the other universities I’ve seen. Being a part of the Great Northwest Athletic Conference has given me plenty of opportunities to compete and win. Western has been everything I missed out on in my early years of college. I’m so glad I made a decision to come here. I was worried about leaving my friends and family back home, but after living in Monmouth and going to Western, I’m so proud of who I’ve become and continue to be. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Justin, thank you for showcasing the incredible opportunities student athletes have here to compete successfully and thrive academically. Your story resonates with many who seek the same opportunity to combine their love of athletic competition with academics, especially if they haven’t found what they’re looking for in a university the first time around. Thanks again.
Let’s hear from Layla, a junior double majoring in dance and environmental studies from Beaverton, Oregon. Western is closely connected to the community and offers many events and things to do. Western is also very focused on student engagement and support and works hard to ensure events and services are accessible to all students. This is another reason why Western is so special. Tell us more, Layla.
– Thanks, Alex. I have been dancing since I was three years old and I’ve always known that I wanted to pursue dance as a career. I mainly came to Western Oregon University for the dance program, but I’ve fallen in love with the community and the beautiful campus. Western is located in the charming town of Monmouth. I love it here because it’s a close-knit community with so much to do. One thing I enjoy doing with friends is watching the sunset near the soccer fields. It’s a really pretty and peaceful place if you want a break from everything. At the end of campus is Main Street, which is packed with cute shops, restaurants, coffee shops, and more. The local park has an amphitheater that offers numerous community events. My friends and I also go to Fall City, which is a swimming pool about 30 minutes from campus. I’m also a part of WOU Crew, which is a student leadership group that works with new students to connect them to all the resources on campus. Western does a great job creating opportunities for student success through transformative education and personalized support. Something really special about Western is how it provides students with the resources and opportunities to succeed and become leaders. I think it’s really cool how they tailor all their services to each student’s specific need, making Western accessible to everyone. I’m very thankful for everything Western has given me and I’m really looking forward to the next couple of years. Take it away, Alex.
– Layla, thank you for highlighting ways students can get involved on campus and in the community. Sounds like the WOU Crew works really hard to ensure students feel included with no shortage of things to get involved with. Your work on The WOU Crew is an important part of preserving Western’s culture and community, and we all thank you for that. Thanks again.
Let’s hear from Max, a junior and first generation student and criminal justice major from right here in Oregon. Western’s criminal justice program is highly regarded in the state and provides students with hands-on experience in partnership with law enforcement. Max’s involvement in the Criminal Justice Club has opened up new experiences for students, like visiting local police departments and talking to law enforcement officers. This is what makes Western so great. Max, tell us more.
– Thank you, Alex. The reason I chose to attend Western was because of its high quality Criminal Justice Program. Growing up, many of my high school teachers and professionals in the criminal justice field spoke highly of this program, and knowing I wanted to be in the field, my decision was easy. As well as being a criminal justice major, I’m also involved in the Criminal Justice Club on campus. It’s a relatively new club, but last year we visited a local police department, and this year we are planning even more excursions. Now, I promise I have a life that doesn’t just revolve around criminal justice. I actually tend to spend a lot of time here at the Health and Wellness Center. You know, just hanging out. This center holds two full-size basketball courts, an indoor track, a swimming pool, fitness classes, a gym packed full of exercise equipment, and of course a massive rock wall. I also meet with a counselor through the Student Health and Counseling Center. Meeting regularly with a counselor helps me manage daily stressors, set future goals, resolve past issues, and generally balances my mental health. Whether you’re interested in criminal justice or the great resources we have here on campus, I highly recommend coming to Western and taking a campus tour. Of course, that’s what I’m here to do, but unfortunately I’m all out of time. Thanks so much for listening and I’ll send it back to you, Alex.
– Max, your work as part of the Criminal Justice Club helps students get an up close look at the field and a sense of what it would be like to work in law enforcement. Combine that with the features of the Wellness Center and Counseling Center, students have opportunities to take care of themselves physically and mentally. Thanks again for sharing.
Let’s hear from Nancy, a first generation senior majoring in psychology and minoring in public health from Sisters, Oregon. Western provides students with numerous leadership opportunities, such as mentoring other students to guide them through many aspects of the college so they can fully take advantage of the well-rounded quality education that Western has provided for over 150 years. Nancy.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. I always knew I wanted to continue my education, but being the first in my family to attend college, I was really nervous and I wasn’t sure what to expect. When I learned about Western and the many resources they had to offer, my family and I knew I would be able to succeed here while majoring in psychology and public health. When I arrived on campus and learned about the Student Enrichment Program, I knew that it would help enhance my college experience. The additional advisor I received became a person I could rely on for questions, helped me stay on track academically, and provide me with well-rounded support I needed to succeed, especially as a first generation student. I was also inspired by my advisor to step out of my comfort zone and take on Hall Government, which was the start of my involvement in leadership. Now, as a senior, I’m proud to mentor students with similar stories to mine through the multicultural student representatives. Being in leadership roles has helped me grow in my confidence and gain key skills that will benefit me in my future career. I also made long lasting connections with students and staff through campus involvement. Western really emphasizes the importance of equality education with a well-rounded student experience and robust student support. A college education at Western is more than just learning. It’s about the resources and opportunities they provide students to succeed and become leaders. Looking back at my freshman year, I’m so grateful for the many resources and opportunities Western offered me. Without the amazing support at Western, I would’ve missed out on the many memories and connections I’ve created. Back to you, Alex.
– Nancy, thank you for showcasing the incredible opportunities students have to make their college experience at Western their own, and that they don’t have to go it alone. Your work as an experienced mentor is an important part of what makes Western so incredible. Thanks again.
Let’s hear from David, a senior majoring in exercise science and minoring in public health from Caldwell, Idaho. Western provides students with opportunities to do research with incredible internships to gain important hands-on learning experience to help them prepare for their career. Take it away, David.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Growing up with one parent made it difficult to get to school extracurricular activities. Because of these challenges, I quickly realized how important education was in order to succeed. From that, I learned how crucial it was to choose the right university and started looking at ones with the major I was interested in, which was exercise science. I was thrilled to find a small town vibe at Western, which made it feel like home. Western has a close-knit community and offers a place where I can grow and learn while feeling safe. Being in an uplifting environment encourages me to pursue my dreams of coming a physical therapist. It also helped drive my passion and taught me how I can integrate my skills with professors and staff and work on student-led research projects. Another benefit of our exercise science program is our internship component. Our internship coordinator helped me get hands-on experience working at a physical therapy clinic, which has solidified my choice of pursuing physical therapy school. Western has many different activities that you can participate throughout the year. One of my favorites is intermural basketball and volleyball. They’re also conferences hosted by real world experts in their fields. The Western Student Body includes many different cultures and has different clubs and events catering to our diverse student body, which creates a welcoming environment. Western isn’t just a place about learning. It’s a place where creativity and innovation take root and flourish. When the time comes to choose a physical therapy program, I wanna choose a university with similar qualities to Western. Throwing it back to you, Alex.
– David, thank you for highlighting the opportunities students have for hands-on real life experiences through research and internships right here at Western. The opportunities you have taken highlight that Western is a place where innovation and creativity can flourish. Thanks again.
Meet Cait, who is involved in student government as an undergraduate as a former Grand Marshal, the highest elected student leader at RPI. Cait, who graduated with a degree in electrical engineering, is now pursuing her MBA with a concentration in life sciences entrepreneurship. Loves that RPI offers so many options for students to get involved. Go for it, Cait.
– Thanks, Alex, and hi everybody. When I was looking for colleges, I felt like every school I looked at had academic rigor and strong extracurriculars, but then I went to an RPI hockey game. And that’s where I learned that RPI students bring their passion and drive and commitment to everything, from the classroom to their hockey chants. I served as Grand Marshal or Student Body President for two years, and this is where I learned what really makes RPI special, student empowerment. As Grand Marshal, I wasn’t just playing student government. I helped with important staff searches, I wrote policy changes for our student handbook, I even helped write the 10 year strategic plan for the Institute. I felt like I was making real tangible changes. You don’t have to run for GM to experience the power of student empowerment at RPI. Our union is central to student life, and it’s a group of students that work with staff on the business operations and finances. Any of our 200 plus clubs have real world impact, from philanthropy organizations like Alpha Phi Omega, to our student run radio stations, WRPI Troy. When you get involved with extracurriculars at RPI, you have the opportunity to impact your campus, your community, and even the whole world, all while having fun. The stakes might be higher, but you learn so much more about yourself and about the world. This unique form of experiential learning is made possible by RPI’s commitment to empowering their students. As I’ve begun the job search, the skills I’ve learned through my extracurriculars have prepared me for the real world. Budgeting, policy writing, relationship building, these are skills RPI teaches you in the union, not in the classroom. I’m proud to know that as an alum, I will be able to walk through campus and see the impact of my time here, as many have before me and as you will too. Good luck everyone, and back to you, Alex.
– Wow, I can’t believe there are more than 200 clubs for students. How cool is that? There’s sure to be something for everyone, no matter what you’re interested in. Thanks, Cait, for telling us about how RPI supports student empowerment. Really cool, thanks again.
Time to meet Ammar. Ammar is a senior from New York City studying mechanical engineering, and chose RPI for its highly ranked engineering program. RPI offers 12 engineering majors like aerospace, nuclear, electrical, civil, and chemical engineering, and that’s not all that drew him to RPI. Here’s Ammar to tell us all about what students can explore at RPI.
– Thank you, Alex. Alongside growing up in New York City, my family has been instrumental in motivating me to build a well-rounded and intellectually rich background. This motivation drove my ever-evolving interests in jazz, engineering, robotics, manufacturing, and sports. I think while I was initially drawn to RPI because of its highly ranked engineering program, the unique combination of the institute’s size, personable campus, and program diversity provided me with the perfect platform for interdisciplinary enrichment. For example, as a jazz pianist and president of the Rensselaer Music Association, RPI’s student-run music community, I found a family away from home that nurtures my musical and leadership growth. Additionally, my interaction with faculty and alumni entrepreneurs and residents within the Severino Center for Technological Entrepreneurship challenges me to think outside of a technocentric mindset when approaching entrepreneurship competitions, and programs such as the National Science Foundation’s Innovation Corps. My mentor-mentee relationship with Professor Johnson Samuel has not only expanded my academic and career horizons, but also exposed me to RPI’s pioneering research in next generation advanced manufacturing, spanning biomanufacturing, energy storage, renewables, and more. Similarly, in what we call the Teaching Factory-Based Manufacturing Education Program, I’ve been able to translate my passion for manufacturing into industry relevant skills and experiences. As a whole, the recognition I’ve gained from awards and scholarships is a direct result of these relations and programs, speaks to the profound impact of the personable faculty and diverse opportunities within RPI’s School of Engineering. My story shows that being a well-rounded engineer with multifaceted layers of artistry, leadership, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence is facilitated in an environment that allows multidisciplinary students to thrive. This interdisciplinary background is enabling me to tackle the convergent solutions required to solve the world’s most pressing issues. Back to you, Alex.
– RPI’s engineering students are also immersed in the areas that matter for our future like semiconductors, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. Students are even involved in motorsports and often in internships in places like NASA. Great story, thank you so much for sharing.