University College

Campaign Goal: $5 Million

In less than half of one second, an Internet search engine turns up millions of links to Web sites that address “the importance of a college education.” These sites echo what family, teachers, and employers have said for some time: a bachelor’s degree contributes significantly to personal knowledge, skills, life opportunities, career prospects, and the likelihood of earning considerably more money over the course of a lifetime. Students go to college with dreams of success in fields such as those highlighted as the Big Ideas of the Campaign for WSU—health, food, sustainability, global leadership, and the Washington economy. These undergraduates are destined to be the educated labor force in the “knowledge economy,” working to improve life and lives locally, regionally, across the nation, and around the world.

Unfortunately, optimism and determination alone aren’t enough to sustain everyone on the journey to earn a bachelor’s degree. The facts show that only 68 percent of students who start as freshmen at Washington State University stay in school to graduation. Most of those withdrawing are first generation college students, come from low-income families, are uncertain of their goals, did not get into the major of their choice, or have other personal or financial issues. The rising cost of a college education puts additional stress on many students and their families. Would things be different if students knew where to get help when they needed to get their studies on track or find resources? Where can students turn for assistance in building the knowledge and skills needed to reach their goals and impact their world?

There is an answer: The University College at WSU. In fall 2009, it became the university’s 12th college, formed from existing units and programs to help all students find their way to academic opportunities and success. It is the front door—the portal—to a degree, providing support and resources from students’ exciting first days at college to their exhilarating graduation ceremony. In the University College, professional academic and career advising offers guidance before undergraduates certify into a major, or when transitioning between majors. Its top-quality freshman programs (popularly dubbed the “first-year experience”) create networks of encouraging people on campus, friends to study with, and an understanding of the university’s expectations regarding academic performance. Special University College courses help students attain the skills to think critically, write and speak effectively, and master learning new things quickly—all qualities that employers tell us they value and, frankly, expect. The units and programs of the University College at WSU help more than 16,000 undergraduates succeed every day.

Serving student needs in these times of state- and world-wide financial distress requires resources beyond caring and commitment.  The University College seeks your investment in its three priority areas: (1) scholarships, fellowships, and internships aimed to help students stay in school (especially first generation, low income, and transfer students) and to develop the personal and professional skills the marketplace demands; (2) programs that enhance the critical first-year experience; and (3) support for creating a curriculum for the 21st Century.  An investment in the University College helps every student achieve his or her dream of a bachelor's degree, reaping the numerous benefits that a college education provides.  In so doing, the University College is a vital resource in preparing a truly educated workforce for a stronger Washington and an interconnected world.

The University College invites our donors and friends to help us reach our goals.  As partners during the Campaign for WSU, we can make an important difference for all undergraduates.  We will use funds to enrich their important first-year experience, award scholarships to help them reach graduation, and support faculty as they redesign the curriculum for the 21st Century.  In this way, investment in The University College at WSU will provide the necessary foundation for students developing the knowledge and skills for life-long success and global impact.