Cougs Persevere with Emma

Transcript

It’s time to meet Emma. She found a way to make college affordable and accessible even when people told her she couldn’t. WSU student body represents a wide range of economic backgrounds and personal circumstances. Affordability is on everyone’s mind as they choose their college destination. Emma, tell us how you made it all happen.

– Thanks, Alex. When I arrived at Washington State University all the way from New Jersey, I had less than $500 to my name and I didn’t know anyone. I was so scared. But fast forward to today, it was the best decision I made in my entire life. I knew once I got here I would need as much financial support as possible. Luckily, I was able to get an $11,000 scholarship just from applying as an out-of-state student and having good grades. I was also able to receive several grants from filling out the FASFA. I recommend taking advantage of the WSU General Scholarship application, which opens you up to hundreds of different scholarships with just one application. And the best part is, it’s possible to receive more than one. In addition to scholarships, WSU offers many on campus jobs that pay well and work with your class schedule. I work at student financial Services, where I’ve learned about all different types of funding and aid that we offer. I’m also a new Coug orientation counselor, where I have the opportunity to share all of the resources available on campus with our new Cougs. Next year, I’m gonna be a resident advisor, which offers free housing and dining as a part of my compensation. All these opportunities have made college more affordable for me. Plus, I’ve built connections and gained leadership skills through these experiences that look great on my resume. I never would’ve expected in a million years for college to have been so rewarding and fun. I’ve put in a lot of work to be here and every bit has paid off. I’m so glad I didn’t let my financial struggles steer me away from becoming a Coug. I wouldn’t change it for the world. Back to you, Alex.

– Emma, thanks for sharing your success and for highlighting the support and financial resources available. It sounds like by combining your student employment with these resources, and adding your perseverance, you’ve been successful in finding ways to afford a life-changing education from WSU. That was awesome, Emma, thanks again.