Higher education, april 17, 2016

Advertising Supplement to The Spokesman−Review an S−R Media Company • spokesman.com • Sunday, April 17, 2016 1

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

TOP STORIES INSIDE

1hr

1hr

1hr

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

U of Idaho

WSU

1hrSR_Mkt16

CC_Spokane

U OF W

spokesman.com

2 Advertising Supplement to The Spokesman−Review an S−R Media Company • spokesman.com • Sunday, April 17, 2016

. . . to a university where you learn by doing.

Welcome to Central.

CWU is an AA/EEO/Title IX Institution. For accommodation e-mail: [email protected]

Central Washington University ranks top in the state for increasing student’s potential. We’re also one of the most affordable. With more than

$40 million annually in grant aid, the average annual out-of-pocket tuition for

students is $3,000. Tuition drops 15 percent for the 2016-17 school year.

Find your niche in one of our exciting degree programs with award-winning

faculty. Make a smart investment in your future. Apply to CWU today.

Domonic Klyve Stuart BoersmaLisa Ely Bruce Palmquist

Welcome

Nick Zentner

America’s Top Math & Science Professors are at Central Washington University.

cwu.edu/welcome

mailto:[email protected]


1hr

WWU

1hr

UofMontana

1hr

SCC

1hr

WSU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

Working towards a college degree doesn’t have to wait until after high school. Today’s high school students in Washington and Idaho have a variety of opportunities available to get a head start on higher education.

Motivated students can take advanced placement classes or dive right in with dual enrollment options. Some opportunities not only help students gain traction on their path towards a college or technical degree, they also can offer substantial financial savings for students and their families.

Advanced Placement ClassesBoth Idaho and Washington

students can utilize advanced placement (AP) classes to help them get familiar with college level work and get a head start on earning college credits.

AP classes are offered at high schools in a variety of subjects. The postsecondary institution a student plans to attend can provide information about which AP classes are accepted and which credits can be provided.

“Paths to Degree Completion from High School through College,” a 2006 research study, affirms the value of more rigorous academic programs.

According to the study, “the academic intensity of the these types of student’s high school curriculum still counts more than anything else in pre-collegiate history in providing momentum toward completing a bachelor’s degree.”

Students must take an exam in that subject and receive a passing score of 3 or higher, depending on the school’s requirements, to receive credits. For more info, visit the official AP student site, apstudent.collegeboard.org.

Tech PrepStudents planning to attend a technical college can receive

college credit for high school professional technical courses through tech prep programs in Washington and Idaho. Tech Prep is an industry and education partnership committed to providing a highly-trained and motivated workforce. These

programs prepare students for the workforce and help maintain a quality life in a changing society. Normally certain courses are evaluated and have been determined to be the

equivalent of a college course. Alternately, high school students may take classes from a participating technical college or technical program at post-secondary institution that will apply towards their desired technical degree or certification. For more detailed information, contact your student’s high school counselor.College-Level Equivalency Program (CLEP)

This credit-by examination program has been around for more than 40 years. It is accepted by 2,900 colleges and universities, and administered in more than 1,800 test centers.

These exams test the mastery of college-level

material, including general academic instruction, independent study and extracurricular work. It’s the easiest way to earn college credits based on what a student already has learned.

Many Washington and Idaho higher education institutions are testing centers and honor college credits earned through CLEP. For more information or to find a testing center, visit clep.collegeboard.org.

International Baccalaureate (IB) This course of study leads to culminating exams for highly

motivated high school students in Washington and Idaho. Only High Level (HL) exams will receive college-level credit, with a qualifying minimum score to receive credit.

This program encourages students throughout their education to think independently and drive their own learning, take part in programs of education that can lead them to some of the highest ranking universities around the world and become more culturally aware, through the development of a second language.

Students are encouraged to

Advancing Higher Education Through High School Partnerships By Nicole Skinner/Marketing Correspondent

Cont. on page 6


1hr

1hr

1hr

1hr

1hr

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

U of Idaho

Whitworth

U of Idaho

WSU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

cont. on page 6

A Washington State University student is usually on academic probation by the time they make their way to the school’s Academic Success and Career Center

seeking help. At this point, academic success coach Ismael Martinez tries to

work with them to figure out at what went wrong.“Maybe it was something as simple as, ‘I didn’t have a

planner,’ ‘I didn’t know what my due dates were’ and that’s an easy fix,” he says.

Other times, they’ve neglected to prioritize school over social activities, clubs or work.

“They come with this mindset that if high school is easy, then college is easy. Which is not the case whatsoever,” he says.

Based on where the student’s original plan failed, he works with them to make a new plan. Often, improving time management skills can put a student back on track for college success.1. Take Inventory.

To start, students can take an online time management workshop, which is accessible to the public online at ascc.wsu.

edu. It provides worksheets for self-assessments and helps students take control of their time management.

The worksheet asks students to take inventory of their current time commitments, including sleep, making meals and getting ready in the morning. If it exceeds 168 hours — the hours in a week — something has to give.

2. Set Priorities.“In college, your professors expect you to spend two hours

studying outside of class for every hour in class. In other words, if you have a typical load of 15 credits, you will want to devote about 30 hours a week to studying,” according to the University of Washington’s Academic Support Programs website.

The expectation that students will study twice as many hours as they have classes holds true at most any school, so that’s 45 hours of the week devoted to academics.

“Being in college is a full-time job,” Martinez says. “And it deserves the respect of being a full-time job.”

If you need to work to pay for school and other costs, that’s OK too, and could actually help your time management efforts.

Martinez believes students can do well if they have a 10-15-hour per week job while going to school, even better than students who don’t work.

“Students that work a modest amount of work and still do academics, they learn to balance their time,” he says. Working over 15 hours per week, though, students may begin to forsake sleep or exercise to fit it all in, resulting in unhealthy habits.

WSU’s time management workshop provides an “Importance vs. Urgency” matrix to help students determine which items on their task list to take care of first. Some tasks may be farther out, but the importance, usually measured by percentage of grade, makes them worth spending time on weeks or months in advance.

3. Make a Plan. Using a planner to schedule out one or more days in

advance means time that would otherwise be wasted, like an hour between class or a few hours just after getting up, can instead be spent intentionally, Martinez says.

Students who take WSU’s time management workshop are encouraged to explore a variety of options for time management to find an effective fit: daily planning, writing to-do lists, keeping a big calendar for the whole semester—or using technology to organize tasks.

Martinez tries to steer students away from using electronic

Students benefit from time management skills, the sooner, the betterBy Erika Prins /Marketing Correspondent


509-335-0125 etm.wsu.edu

I can earn a master’s degree on my schedule.

Online Master’s and Certifi cate Program

Engineering and Technology Management

Advance your career while working full time

Gain the knowledge, tools, and skills to manage technical projects, operations,

people, and organizations.


1hr

WWU

1hr

1hr

CWU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

1hr

U of Idaho

1hr

GONZAGA

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

Advancing Higher Education Cont. from page 3

Students benefit from time management cont. from page 4

calendars. He uses a physical planner to map out the days and weeks ahead.

“The phone has so [many] nifty distracting things—games, social media—and so you go there and go, ‘Ooh. What’s on Facebook?” He says. “Sometimes that’s one of the easiest things: Use a planner—and actually use it.”

Martinez likes to fill out his physical planner during lunch and figuring out tomorrow’s schedule. His schedule revolves around the fixed items, like class and work, but also includes set times for exercise and relaxing with his family. 4. Break up Big Tasks.

“Never do a marathon study. Break it down,” Martinez says. Start studying for a big test earlier, but in small chunks.

“Study 30 minutes, take a break, study again. Then at the end of those two hours, review.”

Cramming doesn’t work well for a number of reasons. People who are sleep-deprived aren’t functioning at their best, for one, and students lose the valuable opportunity to quiz themselves on what they’ve studied to reinforce the material.

“It’s a process and it takes a lot of hours, but it’s the most effective.”

5. Eat the Frog FirstThe WSU workshop organizer recommend the “Eat the Frog

First” approach coined by success coach Brian Tracy, premised on the idea that if one must eat a live frog, it’s least painful just to get it over with. The “frog,” in this case, would be the most daunting task—the one the student would be most inclined to procrastinate.

“If you eat that frog first, it’ll give you energy and momentum for the rest of the day. But if you don’t, if you let him sit there on the plate while you do 100 unimportant things, it can drain your energy and you won’t even know it,” warns a video in the workshop, showing an image of a slimy frog on a plate for emphasis. 6. Be Flexible

For Martinez, who is a graduate student with a 2-year-old daughter, it’s a given that plans will change. To stay on track, he simply returns to the plan once the interruption is over and adjusts his schedule to ensure his priority tasks will still get done.

“Maybe sometimes I won’t go work out, or maybe i won’t have as much time to watch TV,” he says. “Class and work are never going to change, so free time is what has to be sacrificed.”

contact the college or university of their choice to request information about credit transferability.

Washington State ProgramsTo learn more about the following Washington state options

and other opportunities visit http://www.k12.wa.us.College in the High SchoolTaught by approved high school instructors, the College

in the High School program provides college-level academic courses for qualified high school students. The courses are the same as those listed in the college or university course catalog: any curriculum, credits and assessment use the standards used at the participating college or university.Running Start

High school juniors and seniors can earn high school and college credit for Running Start courses, which are offered at select state colleges and universities. This program was initiated by the Legislature as a component of the 1990 parent and student Learning by Choice Law.

Running Start students and their families do not pay college tuition, but are responsible for any required fees, books and transportation. This method can substantially accelerate

progress towards educational goals while reducing overall higher education costs.

Interested students and families should contact the Running Start coordinator at their intended college or university for more information.Idaho State Dual Credit

For more detailed information about the following Idaho program and other opportunities visit the Idaho State Board of Education at https://boardofed.idaho.gov.Dual Credit Opportunities

Created by the Idaho Legislature in 1997, Idaho Dual Credit is a collaboration between Idaho’s colleges, universities and high schools allows high school students to take college courses at their high school for college credit. High school instructors are pre-approved and partner with the selected college or university academic departments.

Students receive both high school and college credit for their class. Letter grades are reflected on a college transcript. Students can also take classes online via distance education or at the college or university campus. This opportunity can result in substantial savings for college-bound students working towards a degree.

http://www.k12.wa.us

https://boardofed.idaho.gov



1hr

U of iDAHO

1hr

1hr

WWU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

1hr

U of W

1hr

WSU

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

Local Community Colleges Offer Many Paths to Success By Erika Prins/Marketing Correspondent

The students in last fall semester’s English 101 at Spokane Falls Community College all did the same coursework. They all took the same tests. But, about half of instructor Bradley Bleck’s English 101 students hung around for a second class, English 99.

Traditionally, students who fell just short of overall college readiness in English were required to take a remedial class before being admitted to English 101. With the new Accelerated Learning Program (ALP), those students can take the remedial course, which counts for 5 credits, at the same time they’re taking the college-level English.

“Essentially, it’s a supplement to what goes on in 101,” Bleck says. Depending on what students are working on in 101, Bleck will assign group activities, work with students individually or simply allow the students to continue working independently.

It’s too early to tell just how well the program is working, but Bleck reports his ALP students performed just as well as the rest of his students on their final presentations last fall.

Community colleges offer a path to college success for students who may have some catching up to do on academics, want to go to school without racking up university-sized debt, or plan to return to school while balancing work and family responsibilities.

For students who need to hone their academic skills before entering college-level courses, community colleges offer learning and life skills resources not available at many universities.

Spokane Falls Community College also participates in the nationwide Gateway to College program aimed at helping struggling high schoolers earn their diploma while earning credits toward a college degree.

Students planning to continue to a four-year school save nearly $12,000 in tuition and fees over the first two years of college compared to their peers at four-year public universities. Tuition averages $3,347 at community colleges nationwide, compared with four-year schools’ average $9,139 annual in-state cost, according to the College Board.

Community Colleges of Spokane – the district that includes Spokane Community College (SCC), Spokane Falls Community College (SFCC) and six rural education sites in the area – partner with nearby universities to ensure credits will transfer and students are on track to shine as transfer applicants.

COMMUNITY_COLLEGES_SPOKANE


9

A variety of special programs at CCS schools make transferring to four-year universities easier. American Honors provides rigorous online courses in partnership with four-year schools to qualifying students.

CCS Destination students receive joint counseling and advising through EWU, keeping program members on track to transfer to EWU as juniors. University articulation agreements with certain four-year institutions offers preferred admission and additional transfer credits.

Bleck attended Seattle Community College in the late 70s, back when he says community colleges were viewed simply as an option for those who weren’t accepted into university.

“It was a breeze,” he says. Now, CCs can be a smart choice for students who want to save money, stay close to home or need extra learning resources to jump start college success.

“They statistically have the same likelihood of earning a bachelor’s degree as a student that starts at Eastern, and the benefit of that is that they save a lot of money,” he says.

Older students may find the flexibility they need at a community college to balance school with family and work responsibilities. CCS schools offer Head Start and Early Head Start programs and childcare for students’ children, which can be paid for using state and federal aid.

Technical degrees and certificates offer a low-cost path to higher paychecks for students with some years of work experience under their belts. Physical therapy assistants – for which SFCC and North Idaho College offer degrees – earn, on average, over $53,000 annually.

Local community colleges are open admittance. Anyone can register given the ability to pay or qualify for financial aid.

Enjoy these snapshots.

Spokane Community College boasts an impressively low student-to-teacher ratio – 28:1. Its sister school, Spokane Falls Community College averages 39 students per teacher. Both schools’ tuition falls in line with the national average at just under $3,500 per year and is well below the state community college average of $5,668 per year.

North Idaho College outshines both Spokane community college with a 17:1 student-teacher ratio and slightly lower tuition, although out-of-state students pay more than twice the $3,214 in-state tuition and fees.

SCC specializes in professional-technical programs. SFCC prepares students for university transfer, and offers Associate’s degrees for liberal arts and several technical degree and certificate programs that don’t require additional school for careers in the medical field.

North Idaho College offers online courses and outreach centers spanning 7,000 square miles of North Idaho to enable rural students to stay local.

More than 30 public community and technical colleges in Washington, Idaho and Montana prepare students for university transfer or equip them with technical degrees or certificates.

Big Bend Community College in Moses Lake also offers aviation and aviation maintenance programs, plus a variety of other opportunities for associate transfer degrees, associate degrees, technical/certificate programs and bachelor degrees through partnerships with other schools.

Some, like Seattle Central College, offer four-year bachelor’s degrees – Seattle Central offers accredited bachelor’s of applied science (BAS) degrees in allied health and behavioral health.

Columbia Basin College in Pasco’s BAS degree prepares students for

business management and healthcare administration careers. Columbia Basin also offers a four-year nursing degree (BSN), an associate’s degree in nursing and a one-year Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification. Still, tuition and fees stay competitive at $4,176 per year for in-state students.

Students planning to continue to a four-year school save nearly $12,000 in tuition and fees over the first two years of college compared to their peers at four-year public universities. Tuition averages $3,347 at community colleges nationwide, compared with four-year schools’ average $9,139 annual in-state cost, according to the College Board.


1hr

1hr

1hr

1hr

1hr

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

U of Idaho

Whitworth

U of Idaho

WSU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

The average cost of higher education for the 2015/16 school year will end up between $23,000 and $37,000, depending on in-state, out-of-state or commuter status.

It is also estimated that these costs will increase approximately 7 percent annually through 2019 – and that’s only for public colleges and universities.

Leaving home, jumping into the brave new world of college life and dealing with the sudden expectations of adulthood is never, ever easy. Throw financial management and independence into the mix, and successfully multi-tasking may seem impossible.

It has become acceptable, and even expected, to graduate college with student loans in excess of $33,000. Today, U.S. student loan debt has reached $1.2 trillion, garnering enough attention to make it a Presidential campaign topic. Here’s how some of the costs come together:Budget: Good budgets establish healthy money management skills, predict income, identify spending trends and create space for inevitably unforeseen or careless situations. With a little research and planning, students can make it through four-five years with confidence and financial skills for the future.

One of the simplest budgeting solutions may be your bank. Debit cards are used more frequently by college students than any other form of payment, and banks often provide a way to track, budget and plan income and expenses.

Budgeting apps are another option. “Mint: Money Manager, Budget & Personal Finance” app by Intuit provides a financial picture, a free credit score and the ability to view spending in real time by connecting directly to financial accounts.

Dave Ramsey’s “EveryDollar Budget” is more comprehensive, but offers customizable budgeting and debt management benefits.Spending: In the third quarter of 2015, U.S. credit card debt reached $0.71 trillion, and the national deficit, at $16.3 trillion, is setting the debt standard in our country. Every second, a student incurs $3,000 in student loan debt. There is a growing concern that this higher education debt may

prevent graduates from expenditures that traditionally drive economic growth, such as buying a house, purchasing a car or saving for retirement.

While students under 21 are unable to apply for a credit card on their own, they can open a credit account with an adult co-signer or proof of sufficient income.

Still, statistics from 2013 show that college students continue to build up credit card debt, with freshman and seniors carrying the highest balances, even though checking accounts and debit cards continue to be the primary spending tool of students.Savings: Parents, grandparents or future students can look ahead to future college costs by establishing a savings account, or even just practicing saving. Either strategy will increase the probability of having more supplementary cash in the bank on high school graduation day.

Traditional savings accounts are a good place to start, but they build slowly, are subject to income taxes and sometimes

require a high balance to be even mildly beneficial.

Some tax-advantaged investment accounts can produce better returns – such as Roth IRAs, Traditional IRAs and Mutual Funds. These come with certain time and access restrictions, and can involve serious investment risks. Uniform Gift Minors Act or Uniform Transfer Minors Act accounts, depending on your state, can allow you to establish a custodial investment account for your child or grandchild. While these investments are good for transferring a parent’s assets to

a minor child, the custodian and the beneficiary are subject to income taxes. UGMA/UTMAs can also have an impact on financial aid.

Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and 529 Plans are investment accounts designated specifically for education expenses. They are tax-free or tax-deferred, dependent upon the use of the funds and the timing of the distribution.

With both accounts, the beneficiary can be changed or transferred, with some restrictions. ESA contributions are limited to $2,000 per year per beneficiary and must cease once the student turns 18. Nearly every U.S. state now has at least one 529 Plan, and there are two types: a savings that works like a 401K or IRA, and a plan that lets you pre-pay education costs. You can open a 529 in any state, regardless of where you live or where your child will attend university.

Each of these options comes with many circumscribed qualifications, exceptions, policies and procedures, and making a decision can be overwhelming.

The HIGHS & lows of Paying for CollegeBy S. Michal Bennett/Marketing Correspondent


INSPIRINGEXPLORATIONIan Richardson discovered a universe of possibilities at Washington State University.

Here the doctoral student in materials science and engineering was inspired to partner with NASA scientists on rocket fuel research, paving the way for new deep space travel. He also headed a team of WSU students that won an international design contest with a plan to create a low-cost hydrogen fueling station for cars.

A bold approach? Definitely. But, after all, you’ve counted on us for creative solutions to the state’s

needs since 1890. And you always can.

125 YEARS, AND COUNTING.

wsu.edu/125


1hr

WWU

1hr

1hr

CWU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

1hr

U of Idaho

1hr

GONZAGA

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

By Jean Arthur/Marketing Correspondent

Idaho recently made it a little easier to attend its eight public colleges and universities by offering automatic enrollment of all Idaho high school seniors.

This effort to encourage them to stay in-state and streamline the enrollment process works out to be about 20,000 graduating Idaho high school seniors. It will hopefully boost a trend of a low rate of students seeking higher education.

In the past, only about half of Idaho teens enrolled in college, and two-fifths of them enrolled out of state.

Now, high schoolers can receive a letter of acceptance to one of the public colleges if they meet threshold academic performance of at least a 3.0 GPA or high SAT or ACT scores. Students not meeting the performance level are offered entrance to two-year colleges or certificate programs.

If automatic enrollment isn’t encouragement enough, the Idaho Board of Education released a study in February of Idaho’s economic impact of a college degree. Researchers from EMSI, a Moscow-based company, found that a college degree in Idaho is a better investment dollar for dollar than the stock market or real estate.

According to “The Economic Value of Idaho Public Colleges and Universities” study, students can “earn” a 13.6 percent average rate of return on that college diploma.

The study, funded by Boise State University, Idaho State University in Pocatello and University of Idaho in Moscow showed an increase in lifetime earnings of $791,855 for an Idaho college graduate vs. someone with only a high school diploma.

Comparably, a similar Federal Reserve study found a 15 percent national annual rate of return.

For those considering studying in the Gem State, here are some public options:

Boise State University www.boisestate.edu/ Undergraduate enrollment: 19,333Resident tuition: $6,876/year for undergraduate

History: Founded in 1932 by the Episcopal Church, the university became an independent institution in 1934. Currently, 42 percent of students receive scholarships and grants toward 85 baccalaureate programs, 4 associate’s degrees and 23 graduate certificates.

Setting: Along the fishable Boise River, the riverfront campus aligns along Julia Davis Park greenspace and is threaded with bike paths. The 175-acre campus in the capital city’s center is backdropped by the Rocky Mountain foothills where recreation includes skiing at Bogus Basin, hiking, rafting and four-wheeling in the vast recreation and wilderness areas within minutes of campus. Satellite campuses at Mountain Home Air Force Base and in Twin Falls provide additional education opportunities.

Idaho State University, Pocatello www.isu.edu/Enrollment: 14,371Resident Tuition: $6,784/year for undergraduateHistory: Founded in 1901, ISU has a $49 million

endowment, some of which helps student scholarships towards 250 baccalaureate degrees, certificate programs and graduate programs.

Setting: Mountains surround Pocatello, offering easy access to recreation at Bear Lake, Craters of the Moon, Lava Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park and several ski areas. In coordination with the Idaho National Laboratory and other Idaho universities, ISU established the Center for Advanced Energy Studies, and now the university is ranked as one of the top 98 U.S. institutions by the Carnegie Foundation as a Research University-High standing. ISU has satellite campuses in Meridian, Idaho Falls and Twin Falls.

Idaho colleges

http://www.boisestate.edu/

http://www.isu.edu/


Lewis-Clark State College, Lewiston www.lcsc.edu Enrollment 4,304Resident Tuition $6,150History: Founded in 1893, the college began as a college of education and

now offers 90+ degree and certificate programs, especially in the areas of education, nursing and criminal justice. With the lowest tuition among the state’s four-year public institutions, more than 76 percent of LCSC students receive financial aid and scholarships. A satellite campus can be found in Coeur d’Alene.

Setting: On the border of Idaho and Washington where the Clearwater and Snake rivers converge, the public undergraduate college on 46 acres, surrounded by peaks and notably close to Hells Canyon and other recreational areas.

University of Idaho, Moscow www.uidaho.edu Enrollment 9,388 undergradsResident Tuition: $7,020History: Founded in 1889, the university is a land-grant institution dedicated

to research, education and extension services. The most popular areas of study are Psychology, General; General Studies; Mechanical Engineering; Finance, General; and Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration. Notably, 75 percent of undergraduates conduct research projects.

Setting: The rural setting in Moscow is notable for its adjacent neighbor, Washington State University, as well as for the adventures available nearby from kayaking and rafting to camping, mountain biking, rock climbing and wilderness trips. Satellite campuses can be found in Coeur d’Alene, Boise and Idaho Falls.

http://www.lcsc.edu

http://www.uidaho.edu


1hr

1hr

1hr

1hr

1hr

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

U of W

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

Lewis Clark

U of W

SCC

By Jean Arthur/Marketing Correspondent

For soon-to-be collegians, one aspect of the admissions/applicationprocess could be the most gratifying and useful: the college visit.

When you intend to visit a college or university, be sure to reserve a campus tour. Depending upon the institution’s size, daily tours may always be available, while smaller schools may only offer something a few days a week or on demand.

Cora Bennett, University of Oregon’s Director of Student Orientation, says that her office annually offers tours to 11,000 high school visitors plus parents and siblings. Bennett offers these suggestions for an effective visit: Plan ahead

Bennett said this benefits everyone, from the staff to the prospective student.

“I highly recommend making tour reservations ahead of a visit, especially if you want an individualized visit to see a particular department or athletic facilities,” she said. “If you’ve already been admitted, then we get to say ‘Congratulations!’ During a visit, you get to see what it takes to become a Duck.”

Bennett’s big tip: “Give yourself plenty of time to find parking. Relax. Make it a day instead of a rushed tour. Have lunch in a residence hall. Visit the bookstore. Ask yourself if it feels right for you? Walk around campus. Do you see happy students?”

The campus grounds, residence halls, classrooms and labs round can all be checked out. Ask questions

Potential students may gain better insight through a college-student-led tour. This is a good time to ask about the guide’s favorite class; what a typical week looks like; and why the guide chose the institution.

Adam Miller, director of admissions for Whitman College in Walla Walla, said the visit should cover more than academics.

“When I give presentations to potential students and their parents, I emphasize that it’s not just a college that they are choosing, it’s a neighborhood and a home for four years,” he said. “Sit on a bench and count the number of students walking by who are on their cell phones vs. those interacting with one another. Consider what’s important: a four minute walk downtown to a coffee shop, or a bus ride

from dorm to class.”Miller suggests that potential students prepare questions for the tour

as well as some generic questions for random students. “(Impromptu questions) will reveal a bit of the character of the institution.”Check out the food

A guide may offer a delicious picture of gourmet salmon chermoula, ice cream bars at every meal and the best burgers in the West—and probably not a glimpse at the typical mystery meat.

That’s why it’s worth an opportunity to dine in the cafeteria. This goes double for students with allergies who need to learn about processing and ingredients. Are there gluten-free options? Are some meals produced in tree-nut-free or peanut-free kitchens? This can be a selling factor too, since vegetarian and allergy-free options sometimes are healthier and fresher.

Samantha Forrest, a recent graduate of Bates College in Maine, recalls how important the dining hall inspection was due to her food allergies.

“The allergens were clearly marked in the dining hall,” she says, although academics were high on her list too. “I knew if it was easier to get gluten-free and lactose-free food, it would be a huge pressure off my shoulders and give more time for studies.”

Forrest looked at many colleges but the attention to food helped seal the deal for Bates. “Middlebury, I didn’t really like because you had to specifically ask for allergy-free food, then go into the back of the kitchen

to get it. It’s already awkward when visiting a new place, and then having to walk through the kitchen. When I was torn about Colby, Middlebury and Bates, the dining offerings came in play.”Learn the environment

Other good visitation questions include: “Where else did you apply?” “Tell me something about the school that’s not in the script” or “What do you wish you’d known – positive or negative – about the college before you arrived?”

Freshman Amrit Sinji-Bhullar, a native of Punjab, India, studying business at Montana State University, wished he’d known about native wildlife.

“I did not know there were bears here,” says Sinji-Bhullar. “I am very afraid of bears, and I was not aware of bears before arriving in Bozeman.”

He remains concerned about black bears on his daily walk.“While choosing college, I researched the education system and its

7 ways to visit colleges effectivelyA tour can offer a better sense of campus, culture


ranking. The research work going in MSU is very impressive, and I found good reviews. And I got a scholarship.”

Recent Occidental College graduate Bryar Brandvold recalls a few details he wished his younger self knew.

“I toured 15 or 20 schools,” he recalls. “Every time I traveled to soccer tournaments, my parents had me visit schools, even if I wasn’t interested. I wanted to play Division III soccer, so I looked at athletic programs plus academics. I over-focused on soccer. But one thing I learned is how important it was to stay a night in the dorms and consider the work-life balance.”

Brandvold suggests asking about the weather. “If you don’t feel good about constant rain or snow or too much sun, that’s a death knell

for happiness and grades.” He has seen the physical environment cause students to become so unhappy that they

withdraw from family and friends “Dropping out is a difficult process. If something inside you tells you the buildings or

attitude of students are overwhelmingly negative, then that’s not the place for you.”What not to do

Even though a school’s athletic team is among the top in the nation, Bennett cautions, “Don’t visit just because you like a football program. You have to care about academics too.”

Guests should not text during the tour because the guide may read that as being uninterested, and maybe even communicate to Admissions. There is one exemption for keeping your phone out, says Bennett: “We love it when students take pictures and share on social media.”

Mainly, she says to keep an open mind. “Don’t arrive with preconceived expectations or hating the place because your parents are

making you visit.” While the tour offers an insiders’ view, just because you don’t click with the guide or his or

her major is different than your plans, doesn’t mean the entire college is a write-off.“I toured one campus, a great school with the exact program I wanted, beautiful campus,”

recalls a Colorado senior, who wished to remain anonymous, “But our tour guide was so awkward, uptight and strange that it was a total turn-off. Now, I realize I was too immature to take a deeper look.”

If possible, visit when schools is in session, rather than a break, so you can assess the atmosphere, the demeanor of the student body and faculty.

Some schools offer separate tours especially for parents, where important questions can be asked about topics like what percentage of first-year students return, and graduation rates. Don’ts for Parents

Miller, at Whitworth, tells parents to avoid personal information on a tour. “Parents should avoid discussing financial aid – usually the guide is a student and not an expert.”

Don’t try and shape your child or his or her resume to fit the school – it’s the other way around.

Bennett and Miller suggest parents try hard not to dominate the conversation. “Don’t ask embarrassing questions like, ‘my son’s GPA was low in early high school years – will that affect acceptance?’ You’ll really embarrass your kid.”

Miller also says parents should have the money talk, prior to a campus visit. “Don’t let you your kid get too excited about a college until you

understand and are prepared for the financial commitment.” Spend the night, go to class

Potential students can get a glimpse of campus life much different from the day tour. Stay-overs must be arranged in advance, and some colleges only allow these on weekdays.

Many colleges require an interview as part of an application process – check to see if an interview is required and a time can be scheduled during your visit.The visit is also a good time to meet a professor or an advisor in your field of study.

Most schools allow prospective students to attend a class. Finally, take notes. Jot down at least three things that make each campus unique as well as what you may need to investigate further.

New ProgramsStarting

Next Fall!

UnmannedAerial Systemsfor AgricultureTwo-year pathways in

Mechatronics and Operations

Medical SimulationTechnician

Program and maintain medicalsimulators (robots)

www.bigbend.edu

http://www.bigbend.edu

Unleashing human potential is at the heart of the University of Washington — in the classroom and around the globe. Our core commitment is to work for the greater good. By enriching the experience of students from Spokane to Sequim, fostering state-wide community partnerships, generating real-world impact and spurring innovation, we’re unleashing potential for our community — in Washington, and around the world. JOIN US. uw.edu

16 Advertising Supplement to The Spokesman Review an S R Media Company • spokesman.com • Sunday, April 17, 2016

Advertising Supplement to The Spokesman Review an S R Media Company • spokesman.com • Sunday, April 17, 2016 17


1hr

WWU

1hr

1hr

CWU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

1hr

U of Idaho

1hr

GONZAGA

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

By Allison Hall/Marketing Correspondent

So you have decided to go to college – now what? Decisions need to be made about what school you will attend, what degree you want to obtain, and how much it will cost.

The cost of college is the big one that a lot of students and parents stress over. Many may even feel like college is out of reach as the cost to attend continues to grow. Although cost really should be a consideration when deciding on an academic track, in today’s world, finances, or the lack of them, does have an affect on whether someone completes or even starts an academic plan.

There are plenty of colleges and universities at different price points, along with many options for financial aid.

What is Financial Aid?Financial aid makes up the difference between what college

charges and what a family can realistically afford to pay. This aid can be provided by the federal government, your state government, and/or the school you attend. Assistance can pay for both direct educational costs (book, fees, tuition) as well as personal expenses (housing, transportation, food). Types of financial aid include loans, grants, scholarships, and campus-based programs:

Grants are federal, institutional, and state awards that do not have to be paid back.

Scholarships are basically gifts that do not have to be paid back. These are usually awarded based on various factors besides financial need (i.e. academic merit, volunteer work).

Campus-based programs such as The Federal Work Study program provide funds to eligible students for part-time employment to help finance the cost of college.

Federal loans are money provided

by the government that must be paid back. These loans consist of subsidized loans, available to undergraduate students with financial need. The federal government pays the interest while you are in school at least half time. Unsubsidized loans, which are available to undergraduate and graduate students, do not require you to demonstrate financial need, but that you are responsible for paying all interest.

Step 1: The application processTo apply for financial aid you must complete the Free

Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year you plan to attend college, whether you are a first-time applicant or renewing your application. This application can be filled out online at https://fafsa.ed.gov/ and is available January 1 each year. The deadline to apply is June 30, however, your state deadline may be sooner. Washington’s deadline is as soon as possible after January 1 until funds are depleted, and for Idaho the deadline is March 1 for priority consideration.

Before beginning your FAFSA you will need to collect the following information: Social Security number (your parents if you are a dependent), drivers license number if you have one,

Paying for College: The Financial Aid Process

WHITWORTH

https://fafsa.ed.gov/


LEARN MORE AT CU-PORTLAND.EDU/3PLUS3

If you’re seriously considering a law

degree, Concordia University’s 3+3

program offers an accelerated track to

complete both a bachelor’s degree and

law degree in six years instead of seven –

saving you time and money.

BACHELORS & J.D. IN JUST SIX YEARS

Concordia University School of Law is provisionally approved by the Council of the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar of the American Bar Association, 321 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60654, 312-988-6738.

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO APPLY FOR FALL 2016

APPLY TODAY AT LAW.CU-PORTLAND.EDU

Students who apply for Fall 2016 and are admitted receive an additional $4,500 in

scholarship assistance. Plus one-on-one mentors, dedicated professors, and tuition

that’s $13,000 below the national average for private law schools.

208-639-5440

[email protected]

Federal tax information or tax returns (you and your spouses, or parents if you are a dependent), records of untaxed income, information on cash, savings, and checking account balances, and investments other than the home you currently own.

Step 2: Review Your Student Aid Report (SAR)Once your FAFSA is filled out and submitted, your information will be sent to

the colleges you listed on the form. You should receive an e-mail within a few days letting you know your FAFSA was processed, along with a Student Aid Report (SAR) that summarizes the information you reported on the FAFSA. This provides you the Estimated Family Contribution (EFC); how much you will be expected to pay for your education before financial aid is applied.

Step 3: Compare Your Financial Aid PackagesFinancial aid administrators at the colleges where you have applied will

use your EFC to determine how much aid you will receive (each may offer a different package). Once they decide on your financial aid package, you will receive a financial aid award letter that tells you the amount of the aid you are awarded and in what form: loan, grant, scholarship, or campus-based program. The letter usually will tell you what steps you need to take next if you are to attend that school and accept their financial aid package.

Keep in mind that the financial aid process is there to help you. Once you have decided which schools you want to apply, contact the financial aid officers of those schools. There is no substitute for getting information from the source when it comes to understanding financial aid information.



1hr

1hr

1hr

1hr

1hr

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

U of W

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

Lewis Clark

U of W

SCC

Right on the heels of a plan to roll back college tuition 15 to 20 percent at four-year public institutions and 5 percent at community colleges, there is a proposal with the Washington Legislature to make community and technical college free for some residents.

The legislation proposes to fund two years of college for students just barely above the income levels for receiving financial aid, state grants and scholarships, but still cannot afford college.

Program qualifications include maintaining a GPA of at least 2.0, not already having a bachelor’s degree, more than 120 credits or have been in school for more than four years. If this proposal passes this session, it is expected to immediately help more than 50,000 students.

This and other student-centric campaigns are part of an effort for at least 70 percent of Washington adults ages 25-44 to earn a postsecondary credential by 2023.

The Washington Student Achievement Council created the 12th Year Campaign and the College Bound Scholarship program to help remove challenges and barriers students may face when considering postsecondary education, such as complicated financial aid processes or other financial concerns. The Council also launched readysetgrad.com, a site that encourages students and parents, starting as early as sixth grade, to discover resources to find, pay for and complete the education path that is right for each student. Washington State Higher Education at a Glance

Washington State University

WSU is a top-tier research university that has been providing postsecondary excellence for more than a century. It was founded in 1890 as Washington’s original land-grant university.

Students can choose from 90 academic majors for undergraduates, 76 master’s degree programs, 64 doctoral degree programs and three disciplines with professional degree programs, plus a large offering of online degree options.

In addition to the main Pullman campus, there are satellite locations in Spokane, Tri-Cities, Vancouver and Everett.

Recent accolades include best-in-the-nation university-wide writing program (2016, U.S. News), top five interior design graduate program in the West (2015, DesignIntelligence), top online criminal justice bachelor’s degree in the nation (2014, Criminal Justice Degree Online).University of Washington Current Enrollment: 44,786

per year (2015-2106 rates)

The University of Washington is a multi-campus university in Seattle, Tacoma and Bothell. Founded in 1861 with an original class of 30 students, it has grown to 16 colleges and schools and offers 1,800 undergraduate courses.

Notable recent honors and awards include being home to 26 researchers included on Thomson Reuters’ list of “The World’s Most Influential Scientific Minds” for 2015, 11th overall in the second edition of U.S. News & World Report’s Global University Ranking in 2015, and Reuters declared it one of the world’s most innovative public universities in 2015.

Current Enrollment: 12,361

With its main campus in Cheney, EWU offers 135 fields of study. This includes nine master’s degrees, 12 graduate certificates, 39 graduate programs, one educational specialist degree and one applied doctorate.

Students also can enroll at EWU Spokane, Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Lakewood, Longview, Seattle, Vancouver and Yakima. Founded in 1882, the university is academically divided into five colleges: the College of Arts, Letters & Education; the College of Business & Public Administration; the College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics; the College of Social Sciences.

Recent and notable accolades include the Princeton Review ranking of EWU’s College of Business and Public Administration as one of The Best 296 Business Schools in 2014. EWU has also been named as a Military Friendly School for 2014 by G.I. Jobs Magazine, which ranks Eastern in the top 15 percent of all colleges, universities and trade schools nationwide.

Tuition reduction one highlight of Washington higher ed By NICOLE SKINNER/Marketing Correspondent



Originally founded as a school to educate future teachers, today’s Central Washington University offers 135 different majors. Doors first opened in 1891, but the school didn’t take its current name until 1977.

Today CWU provides high quality programs via eight locations, and is co-located with community colleges in Edmonds, Everett, Des Moines, Steilacoom/Puyallup, Kent, Yakima, Moses Lake, and Wenatchee, where students can complete baccalaureate degrees without leaving their communities. CWU also serves more students online than any other comprehensive university in Washington.

CWU has a 19-1 teacher to student ratio. It has a number of nationally and regionally distinguished academic programs including music, geology, physics, and education.


Located 90 miles north of Seattle, Western Washington University offers more than 160 academic programs. More than 79 percent of faculty hold the highest degree in their field.

Founded in 1893, with the first class entering in 1899 of 88 students, Western.It is the highest-ranking public, master’s-granting university in the Pacific

Northwest, according to the 2016 U.S. News & World Report college rankings. Both Forbes and Kiplinger magazines rank Western as a top value in education.


Evergreen began in 1971 and has since developed a national reputation for leadership in developing innovative interdisciplinary, collaborative and team-taught academic programs. With a campus located in Olympia, the College offers a vibrant undergraduate program, three graduate programs, and public service centers that constitute a unique academic setting.

There are more than 60 fields of study to explore. First year students have access to top tier equipment like nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopes, 3D printers, and studio cameras. This creates an inspiring learning environment.

Recent accolades include being listed as a best buy school in the 2015 Fiske Guide to College. U.S. News and World Report’s 2014

listing of top public regional universities ranks Evergreen at No. 4 in the West. Plus the 2014 Princeton Review calls Evergreen one of the country’s best institutions for undergraduate education, based on outstanding academics.

Private Postsecondary EducationWashington state is also home to many highly regarded private colleges including

Antioch University, Bastyr University, Cornish College of the Arts, Gonzaga University, Heritage University, Northwest University, Pacific Lutheran University, St. Martin’s University, Seattle Pacific University, Seattle University, University of Puget Sound, Walla Walla University, Whitman College and Whitworth University.


1hr

U of iDAHO

1hr

1hr

WWU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

1hr

U of W

1hr

WSU

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

Military service can help with college costsBy Nicole Skinner/Marketing Correspondent

Students considering, or who have already committed to, serving in the Armed Forces, can get help with college costs from Uncle Sam.

The benefit of the GI Bill and other military funding options can offer life-changing education that will help students pursue their passions and interests with little out-of-pocket costs. Just as with any benefits program, there are guidelines and rules that must be followed to get the most out of the benefits.

Here are several tips to remember when trying to create and map out education plans to use the Post- 9/11 GI Bill. Who is or is not eligible?

A veteran may be eligible if he or she served at least 90 aggregate days on active duty after September 10, 2001, or was honorably discharged from active duty for a service-connected disability after serving 30 continuous days following September 10, 2001.What is offered? A veteran may receive a monthly housing allowance, tuition assistance and a stipend for books and supplies. Benefits are given by percentage according to the chart below.

What degrees are covered? Students can explore two- and

four-year degree programs, plus other qualified educational opportunities at trade schools, on-the-job training programs, apprenticeships, and flight schools. There’s even entrepreneurship training options.

The GI Comparison Tool on the Veterans Administration website

www.benefits.va.gov can provide information about college affordability and value to help students choose the best education program for their needs and goals. Do benefits expire?

These valuable benefits are time-sensitive to some extent. While the funding program has been designed to offer ample time to use the benefits, they are generally no longer available after 15 years following release from active duty.

Can benefit be transferred to family members? Service members can transfer all or some unused benefits

to their spouse or dependent children. The Department of Defense determines whether a veteran qualifies to transfer benefits to his or her family. Once the DoD approves benefits for transfer, the new beneficiaries may apply for them at VA.

These current regulations apply to military members who served on active duty after September 10, 2001. If service falls under another time period, there are other benefits and programs that may apply to each veteran’s specific situation.

To review the full details of the Post-9/11 GI Bill and other veteran’s education benefits and programs, visit www.benefits.va.gov and go to the Education and Training tab. For Related Info: Yellow Ribbon Program

The Post-9/11 GI benefits may not cover all of the tuition for a private institution or if the student is paying nonresident tuition a public university or college. The Yellow Ribbon Program was created to help cover the difference in these situations for qualified veterans.

Participating schools and institutions can participate in this program to make additional funds available for the beneficiary’s education program without drawing against the allowed GI Bill benefits. Only those who are receiving the maximum benefits are eligible to participate in this program. Find full program details at benefits.va.gov/gibill/yellow_ribbon.asp.

Individuals serving an aggregate period of active duty after September 10, 2001, of:

Percentage of Maximum Benefit Payable

At least 36 months 100%

At least 30 continuous days and discharged due to service connected disability

100%

At least 30 months < 36 months 90%




At least 6 months < 12 months

50%

At least 90 days < 6 months 40%

http://www.benefits.va.gov

http://www.benefits


Have you ever heard of the expression “you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours,” or the the Latin expression “Quid pro quo,” meaning something for something? If you have, then you understand reciprocity, or the the practice of exchanging things with others for mutual benefit. College reciprocity works in the same manner when it comes to tuition, and for the western region of the United States it started back in the 1950s when the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) was created to facilitate resource sharing among the higher education systems of the West.

Residents of WICHE states are eligible for the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program waiver, which allows students in certain states to enroll at a reduced tuition rate while seeking their first undergraduate degree. Current WICHE states include Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Hawaii, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Students in these states are eligible to request a reduced tuition rate of 150% of resident tuition at participating two- and four-year college programs outside of their home state. Each state currently determines its own WUE funding, so the reduced tuition rate may not be automatic and there are a limited number of WUE awards given each academic year – so apply early!

Current requirements for eligibility include applying and being accepted at a WUE school and completing the Financial Aid Form. Once a tuition waiver is granted the student must maintain residency in an eligible state, maintain a cumulative 2.0 GPA, and be enrolled at least half-time. There is usually no separate application process to be considered for the WUE,

but verify with the school before applying. Also, keep in mind that the WUE program does not apply to summer classes, study abroad programs, or remedial courses. In addition, post-baccalaureate students, graduate students, or students seeking a second bachelor’s degree are not eligible to receive the WUE.

If a student is given a WUE waiver for tuition, that rate should extend to the student for a maximum of

College Reciprocity by Allison Hall/Marketing Correspondent

cont. on pg 25


1hr

WWU

1hr

1hr

CWU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

1hr

U of Idaho

1hr

GONZAGA

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

(BPT) - College is full of milestone moments, both wonderful (walking across the stage to get your diploma) and not-so-great (realizing your sick roommate has sneezed all over your desk and mom and her Clorox wipes are miles away).

Dorm-dwelling is a rite of passage for many college students; 40 percent of full-time students at public colleges live on campus, according to College Bound Network. Living in a dorm can teach you responsibility and cooperation, introduce you to new people and cultures and serve as an important step in your journey toward independence. Making a go of it without the immediate support of your parents can be a challenge, however, so it pays to have some essential survival tools on hand.

The school supply experts at Staples recommend these 7 tools that every dorm-dweller should have on hand:

1. Desk organizers and accessoriesYou’ll probably have your own desk/work area in your

dorm room and it most likely won’t be spacious. Organizers and accessories can help keep the smallest workspace tidy and functioning optimally. File sorters can help you stay on top of assignments; drawer organizers can keep pens, pencils and paper clips out of the way but still in reach, and a pencil

cup with cellphone holder gives you a place to park your phone while you’re working.

2. Headphones and wireless speakers

Whether you’re relaxing with some tunes or listening to a recording of a lecture you missed, you’ll want the best sound possible. Wireless speakers allow you to move the sound to where you need it most without cluttering up the

room with wires. When you’re done using them, store them out of the way. Or, if you don’t want to disturb your roommate (or be disturbed), a good set of headphones are a must.

3. Laundry accoutrementsIt’s a time-honored joke that dorm-dwellers bring their

dirty laundry home for mom to do, but that’s not really what happens. In reality, you’re going to have to do your own laundry while you’re at school. Most dorms have communal laundry rooms, so you’ll need a basket or bag in which to carry your laundry. It pays to have your own detergent and fabric softener, too, as your roommate will quickly lose patience if you constantly mooch his. Find a small laundry basket with a curve for your hip to make it easy to carry, and consider using those

all-in-one laundry packets that incorporate detergent and softener in one pod.

4. A kick-butt laptopLaptops are great for everything a college

student needs and wants to do, from gaming to word processing, streaming video or uploading assignments. Make sure yours is fast and versatile and a fun color.

5. Storage solutionsDorm rooms are rarely spacious, and don’t

forget you’ll almost certainly be sharing with at least one other person. Closet and drawer space will be at a premium. Give yourself additional storage space, like a crate which is stackable, can fit into corners and can hold just about anything, from books to clothes to audio/visual components. And they’re lightweight to pack up and move when the school year ends.

6. Cleaning suppliesRemember that sick roommate who slimed your desk?

That won’t be the only mess you need to clean up in your dorm room. Keep simple, multi-use cleaning supplies on hand like disinfectant wipes, to mop up spills and fight germs. Remember, a clean dorm room is a healthier dorm room!

7. A handheld shower caddyDorms often have multiple rooms sharing a single bathroom.

Even if your room has its own attached bath, you’ll still be sharing it with at least one other person. If you both leave all your shower stuff there every day, the room will quickly become cluttered. Use a portable shower caddy to transport shower essentials (don’t forget shower shoes/flip flops) to and from the bathroom each day. That way, the room stays neat and you don’t have to worry about your roommate using the last of your salon-quality shampoo!

Dorm dwelling can be a positive experience you’ll never forget, as long as you move in with the right survival tools in hand.

� survival tools for dorm-dwellers

1hh1hhhhr11111hhhhrrrr11hhhhrrrrrr111111hhhrrrrr___________

WHITWORTH


You’ve been waiting for the right time to go back to school. Now it’s time to get the degree that will set you apart.

PUBLIC SERVICE ADMINISTRATION | CRIMINAL JUSTICE ADMINISTRATION SOCIAL SERVICES | HUMANITIES | AAS DEGREE TRANSFER

MANAGEMENT & ACCOUNTING | ORGANIZATIONAL MANAGEMENT ELEMENTARY EDUCATION | EDUCATIONAL STUDIES

Attend class in the evening, connect with your professional peers, and build the skills you need to take your career to the next level.

g classes meet once or twice a week.lasses are available.

Spokane, in the U-District. And it’s all available at a tuition that’s competitive with the cost of a state university.

WWW.WHITWORTH.EDU/EVENING509.777.3222

ADVANCE YOUR CAREER.

AFTER WORK.

two years to earn an associate’s degree at a community college or for four years to earn a bachelor’s degree at a university. Verify with your school to confirm if you have to reapply each year. Also know that you can not establish residency in the state where you are attending school if you are paying the WUE tuition rate, and some degree programs are not eligible.

So how do the local colleges and universities compare to an online university when a WUE waiver is used.

Eastern Washington UniversityEWU is located in Cheney and is a member of the WUE program. The current

tuition breakdown is based on an average 9-month cost of attendance. For the 2015-2016 school year WUE students would save $10,706 than a non-resident (a savings of 48 percent).

WA Resident WUE Non-Resident

Tuition & Fees $7,866 $11,565 $22,271

North Idaho CollegeNIC is located in Coeur d’Alene, and also a member of the WUE program.

The college determines a students’ residency at the time of application to the college. Currently NIC offers Washington residents a reduction in tuition beyond the WUE rate. For the 2015-2016 school year a sample of rates are shown at the top of next column:

CreditHours

Idaho Resident

Non-District

WA Resident

WUE Resident

Non-Resident

1 $144 $203 $230 $269 $342

9 $1,208 $1,739 $1,962 $2,333 $2,990

12 $1,607 $2,215 $2,639 $3,107 $3,983 This tuition breakdown from NIC shows that a Washington resident taking 9 credit hours saves $371 more than someone using the WUE waiver (a savings of almost 16% more). In addition, a WUE resident would save $657 more than a non-resident (a savings of over 20 percent).Western Governor’s University of Washington (WGU)

Western Governor’s University of Washington is not a WUE member, but instead offers a flat tuition rate to all students regardless of their state of residency. This allows students to pay by study time and not by credit hour. The basic rate for most programs is $2,890 per term. In this case, students would not benefit by being in-state, a WUE state, or out-of-state, as everyone pays the same rate.

Deciding on what college or university to attend can be a bit stressful, but add in the cost of paying for your education and it can build to overwhelming rather quickly. Knowing ahead of time that you will benefit cost-wise by being a resident and attending school in one of the 15 WICHE states will help alleviate some of the financial burden. Remember to apply early and check with your specific institution for more information on their application process.

College Reciprocity cont. from pg 23


1hr

1hr

1hr

1hr

1hr

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

U of Idaho

Whitworth

U of Idaho

WSU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

With record numbers of students enrolling in colleges across the country, career development services are becoming more and more important.

According to the U.S. Department of Education’s 2015 National Center for Education Statistics, 20.2 million students sought education in fall 2015, an increase of almost 5 million since fall 2000. While some students likely have specific educational and career goals in mind, others are going in with uncertainty.

“Career decision-making is a journey… you will probably change several times throughout your lifetime,” said Ray Angle, Gonzaga University’s Assistant Vice President for Career and Professional Development.

With so many educational options, new ways of communicating, new technology and new career fields, how do you know the right field of study for you, or at least which industries have good employment prospects because they need a supply of trained employees?

At Gonzaga, with this year’s freshman class the largest in the school’s history and a student population that has doubled in the last 10 years, Angle and other career counselors have their work cut out for them.

“Our mission is to help students clarify and obtain their goals,” said Angle, “In general, we probably speak to about 300 students a month one-on-one.”

In 2015, 1,153 undergraduate degrees were awarded at Gonzaga. The degree Angle says was most sought was business administration, followed by accounting and psychology.

Gonzaga had the best luck with placement for nursing and teaching field, with both fields having the highest employment rate the year immediately following graduation.

GU’s School of Education has the highest success rate, with 93 percent of graduates currently working or in graduate school, due to the local teacher shortage.

Nationally, the most recent numbers from the U.S. Department of Education, are similar to Gonzaga’s, with the most degrees awarded in business, social sciences and history, health professions and related programs, then psychology and education.

Education experts caution that a high number of degrees in a particular field doesn’t necessarily mean those are the areas where local workers are badly needed.

The Spokane Area Workforce Development Council monitors employment data and analyzes workforce needs and trends for the area. It looks at the area’s needs now, what they will be in three years, and indicates if those industries are growing and will show a need for a future workforce.

Jessica Cato, a Workforce Program Manager at SAWDC, says the agency maintains a list of “five target industries in demand” based on that analysis. The list currently includes health care; manufacturing; transportation and warehousing; professional, scientific and technical services; and finance and insurance.

These are the sectors that grew the fastest over the past five years and will continue to require workers in coming years. The majority of these positions require some post-secondary education but less than a bachelor’s degree. There are multiple opportunities in each field.

“There are so many jobs that go into each of those industries,” said Cato. “HR, accounting, professionals, and executives, and production-type leaders.”

Data on the SAWDC website also shows that construction, an industry that has experienced some of the slowest job gains over the past five years, is expected to show major job growth throughout Spokane County in the next several years.

To get people into these areas, SAWDC works closely with the Community Colleges of Spokane and area employers to create training programs.

“In Spokane you need a credential or certificate to get a job,” said Cato, or you can go with on-the-job training to fill more and more openings that will be available in skilled trades in the future. “There are a lot of career pathways through apprenticeships. Bricklayers, plumbers, linemen, really make good wages.”

Planning Your Future - Popular Degrees & Industries That Need WorkersBy Staci Lehman/Marketing Correspondent


Want a job that aims, above all else, to make people feel better?Consider becoming a massage therapist.

AiCM offers a Massage Therapy Certification. This program familiarizesstudents with both healthcare and spa techniques and procedures.

The medicalmassage industryis fast growingand in demand.

For information on our Certification Classes and schedule,please call 208-773-5890.

4365 Inverness Drive, Post Falls, ID • www.aicm.edu

AiCM’s Open House is on May 23rd, 2016 at 6pm.Learn about the industry and receive the latest

course information and schedule.

Angle said the Spokane area needs to retain more of the people being prepped for the workforce today, whether coming out of college or training programs. Because the majority of Gonzaga students come from outside the area, only about 10 percent stay in the region following graduation.

“The world keeps preaching that we need STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education. The people who get those degrees are probably going to larger cities,” said Angle. “We’d like the business community to create more of a pipeline to keep people in Spokane.”

Angle and other career counselors feel that degrees having to do with data visualization (placing info in a visual context to make it easier to understand), big data management (the organization, administration and governance of large volumes of data) and any kind of analytics will be in demand. Anymore, he says, it’s not so much about preparing students for specific jobs but for more job fields.

“Right now, the university is training students for jobs that don’t even exist yet. There’s a greater emphasis on technological ability,” he said.

Ultimately, he recommends students look less at economics and future job outlooks, and more at what interests them. His reasoning is that if you love something you will do well in it, and many young people today are basing career choices on criteria other than how much money they can make.

“This generation, the millennials, are not compromising on what they want,” said Angle. “They may take a lesser paying job to get that.”

Gonzaga’s online Career and Professional Development Center offers resources for the public, including a job board, internship opportunities, sample cover letters and resumes, information on career and internship fairs and more. It can be found at www.gonzaga.edu/careercenter.

Workforce Spokane, www.wdcspokane.com, also has job seeker resources and services for the public, including a “Next Generation” Zone” for ages 16-21. www.wdcspokane.com/job-seeker-resources

http://www.aicm.edu

http://www.gonzaga.edu/careercenter

http://www.gonzaga.edu/careercenter

http://www.wdcspokane.com

http://www.wdcspokane.com/job-seeker-resources


1hr

U of iDAHO

1hr

1hr

WWU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

1hr

U of W

1hr

WSU

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

By Erika Prins/Marketing Correspondent

Out-of-state public college tuition can sometimes cost more than double the in-state cost amount. But the heart wants what the heart wants, and this is especially true when high schoolers begin applying to favorite colleges.

Inland Northwest students with their hearts set on continuing their education outside of Washington and Idaho may find just what they’re looking for in Montana: top-notch institutions, beautiful new terrain to explore—and at a relatively low cost compared to public schools in other states, even for non-Montana residents.

The generally low tuition costs are part of an effort to increase college enrollment in Montana, whose most recent available data reveals fewer than 70,000 Montana residents attend college in-state.

For some prospective out-of-state students, financial aid and scholarships can help bridge the gap. Some schools, like Montana State University, offer rolling admissions so students can apply any time. Others require applications to be submitted in the fall or spring.

PUBLIC UNIVERSITIESMontana State University Flagship Campus: BozemanMascot: BobcatsEnrolled Students: 13,371Tuition & Fees: $6,968 resident and $21,961 non-residentStudent-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1Acceptance Rate: 84%Rolling admission. Apply by May 15 for fall semester.

Originally the Agricultural College of the State of Montana, the school started with just five students in a high school classroom.

More than 100 years later, it’s the largest university in the state – and its highest-ranked public university by Forbes. Those rankings take into account student satisfaction, post-graduate success, student debt and academic success. The MSU Bobcats compete in the NCAA Division I Big Sky Conference.

Home to WWAMI, a medical education program in cooperation with four other states, MSU provides the first 18 months of medical science education to all of Montana’s 30 new medical students annually. A projected shortage of medical professionals in the state has prompted the state to pursue expanding WWAMI, either at MSU or University of Montana.

MSU’s satellite campuses in Billings and Havre also offer four-year degrees, and affiliated Great Falls College offers two-year technical degrees.

Top majors: Business/CommerceElementary Education and TeachingMechanical Engineering

University of Montana Flagship Campus: MissoulaMascot: Grizzlies Enrolled Students: 9,447Tuition & Fees: $6,389 resident and $23,845 non-residentStudent-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1Acceptance Rate: 94%Application Deadline: Rolling admission. Apply by May 15 for fall semester.

University of Montana is Montana’s second-largest university, known for a scenic campus at the foot of Mount Sentinel (the one with the big “M”).

UM students can earn course credit interning with the

Montana Colleges and Universities


1hr

Lewis Clark

1hr

U of W

1hr

SCC

1hr

WSU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

Program in Ecological Agriculture and Society (PEAS), working on the university’s 10-acre farm to produce crops for emergency food shelters.

One affiliated campus includes UM Western in Dillon, founded as a teacher training university, which focuses heavily on education programs. The school uses immersive block scheduling called Experience One in which students take just one class at a time for about a month.

The UM family also includes Montana Tech and two-year colleges Missoula College University, Helena College University, Highlands College of Montana Tech and Bitterroot College in Hamilton.

Top majors: Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support ServicesSocial SciencesVisual and Performing Arts

PRIVATE COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIESCarroll College Campus: HelenaMascot: Fighting SaintsEnrolled Students: 1,430Tuition & Fees: $30,714Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1Affiliation: Roman CatholicApplication Deadline: May 1Acceptance Rate: 58%

Carroll College ranked first in Montana by Forbes Top Colleges again this year and first in the region by U.S. News & World Report College Compass. A small-school experience with steep tuition, students awarded need-based scholarships and grants received an average of $16,660.

The STEM-focused school’s undergraduate students garner an 85 percent medical and dental school acceptance—and have discovered more than 10 new species, according to Helena’s Independent Record.

As the first Montana college to become Fair Trade certified, Carroll College sells products like coffee, tea, snacks and jewelry on campus.

Top majors: Health Professions and Related ProgramsBiological and Biomedical SciencesBusiness, Management, Marketing, and Related Support ServicesUniversity of Great Falls (UGF)Campus: Great FallsMascot: ArgosEnrolled Students: 1,043Tuition & Fees: $21,556Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1Affiliation: Roman CatholicApplication Deadline: Rolling admissions - apply by September 1 for fall semester.Acceptance Rate: N/A (Non-Selective)

University of Great Falls has 31 distance learning sites in Montana, southern Alberta and Wyoming and serves students around the world through its Telecom Distance Learning Program. Female students outnumber men by 2:1 on campus—though the school, founded as a ladies’ college in 1932, became coed just five years later.

Top majors: Health Professions and Related ProgramsEducationBiological and Biomedical Sciences

Rocky Mountain College (RMC)Campus: BillingsMascot: Battlin’ BearsEnrolled Students: 939Tuition & Fees: $24,530Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1Acceptance Rate: 66%Affiliation: Protestant

Montana’s oldest college, Rocky Mountain College in Billings, offers liberal arts and professional degrees including aviation and equestrian programs. RMC even offers outdoorsy students opportunities to ski, raft, backpack, kayak and rock climb—often for class credit. Billings is Montana’s largest city and just a 90-minute drive from Yellowstone National Park.

Top majors: Business Administration and ManagementEquestrian/Equine StudiesBiology/Biological Sciences


1hr

1hr

1hr

1hr

1hr

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

U of Idaho

Whitworth

U of Idaho

WSU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

Graduate school can improve job prospectsBy Courtney Dunham/Marketing Correspondent

Advancing or furthering your ability to excel in your job or career is a smart reason for considering graduate education.

Certain fields such as health care, law, teaching, and social work require an advanced degree or a certificate in order for you to legally practice or to be recognized as a professional.

The new skills and knowledge you gain from your graduate education can improve your ability to do your best work and better position you for more opportunities for advancement in your career.

While a graduate degree does not automatically lead to a promotion in title, salary, or responsibility, it can be very personally, if not also professionally, rewarding. Most graduates say their investment in yourself and in your graduate education will eventually pay off in both intangible and tangible ways.

On the other hand, a graduate degree is not the only option for professional development. Many institutions offer continuing education or certificate programs to meet the specific needs of working professionals who wish to supplement or complement their skill set in an affordable and flexible manner.

Several area colleges offer several graduate programs. Gonzaga University is especially known for its Masters in Business program.

GU’s AACSB-accredited graduate business programs are rooted in the Jesuit understanding that business decisions have ethical implications. The school challenges students to think beyond the dollars and cents.

“Our mission is to inspire men and women to become innovative and ethical business leaders who will use their talents to create a vibrant workplace and a better world,” as stated on the program’s site.

Gonzaga offers several graduate business programs including:

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Master of Accountancy (MAcc)Master of Science in Taxation

(MSTax)Dual Degree: MBA/JD or

MAcc/JD

MBA in American Indian Entrepreneurship

Graduate programs in business are open to any qualified holder of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university regardless of undergraduate major field of study. Administration says the goal of the admission policy is to select candidates who demonstrate the greatest potential for academic and professional success. The application committee reviews all components of candidates’ applications when making admissions decisions.

Students may be admitted to the program prior to the start of any term. GU does not specify specific deadlines for admission, however, it recommends that you complete your application three months prior to the start of the semester. You can apply for fall, spring, or summer semesters. To find out more, go to www.gonzaga.edu.

Whitworth University offers several graduate programs, but one of its most popular ones is

Master in Teaching. If you have a bachelor’s degree in an approved teaching endorsement area, the school’s Master in Teaching Program lets you earn a master’s degree and your Washington State Teaching Certificate at the same time. This is an ideal program for those looking to complete two programs in one.

This means the intensive full-time program means you’re ready to teach in just 13 months. With its proven track record, Whitworth consistently has some of the highest placement rates in the region. Its graduates are highly sought-after by school principals and are recognized for their excellent preparation.

If you have questions about the program, or if you would like to sit in on an MIT class, contact the MIT advisor at (509)777-3769.

Eastern Washington University offers several graduate programs as well. Programs offered include in Business, Communications Disorders, Counseling, and Urban Development. For more information, contact the school at [email protected] or (509) 359-6297.

When deciding whether or not to pursue an advanced degree, women should consider the impact such a pursuit might have on their present employment.

http://www.gonzaga.edu

http://www.gonzaga.edu



1hr

WWU

1hr

UofMontana

1hr

SCC

1hr

WSU

2016

COLLEGE

BOUND

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

SR_Mkt16

By Courtney Dunham/Marketing Correspondent

With the cost of a college education sometimes a budgetary challenge, taking online courses can often be a more affordable option.

Many pursue an online education to reduce the need for high student loans, along with those who have chosen to go back to school later in life and are searching for ways to balance home and work life with their education plans.

Whether it’s traditional education or an online one, you’ll pay an extra $15,933 for every extra year at a public two-year college and $22,826 for every extra year at a public four-year college, according to a recent report by Complete College America.

People considering an online education, where they can obtain a college degree by fitting classes into their budget and lifestyle instead of the other way around, should consider these common factors to achieve the experience they are looking for in costs, commitments, and timelines.

One of the most important initial factors to consider is financial. Is there financial aid available for an online degree at the school you’re considering?

Student loans typically are available for online degrees and courses. However, some scholarships and grants may not be used for some online classes. Make sure to read the fine print. Make sure to research not only the tuition but any additional fees and costs for your degree from start to finish.

Then research the reputation of the school. Many colleges offer online courses or online degrees for sometimes little or no cost, but that doesn’t mean they are accredited. A good pro-active approach should include taking time to research the actual classes and instructors.

Sue Kelly, who chose to go back to school online after raising three children, said wishes she had learned prior to enrollment how to handle complaints regarding a professor.

“During one of my online classes, my professor routinely did not respond to any of my emails and questions, which made a mostly good experience very frustrating at times,” she said.

Kelly suggests that students not be afraid to speak up, or even file an official complaint, when your professor is not treating your online college course with the same respect he or she may treat a traditional classroom class.

“You are still paying tuition and should receive the same level of respect and time commitment,” Kelly said.

Would-be online students need to be aware and respectful of their own time commitments too. The time involved in each class online is equal to attending regular classes, even if you may not spend traditional time in a classroom.

Some wrongly assume that studying online exclusively will reduce instructional time. But depending on the online course, you may actually spend more time on coursework. But the upside is that you can often pursue it on your time.

A good habit is to schedule set class times for yourself each week to make sure you can fill the commitments. This could mean don’t have the television on in the background while you are “in class.” Set a specific time for your online course and turn off all outside distractions.

Kelly said she found she was much more productive when she was more disciplined. She scheduled class and study time when her family wasn’t around to distract her.

Another common misassumption is thinking that online classes will be easy. Online instructors may assign more reading materials than required in a regular classroom to ensure that students remain engaged. Motivation is key to an online student’s success as is his or her ability to reach out to both instructors and fellow students.

Doing well also may require basic computer literacy, including reliable Internet connection and correct multimedia software.

For instance, an instructor may use a version of Microsoft Word that is much newer than your current software, which can lead to delays or format problems. Make sure to read the requirements for equipment, hardware and software in addition to the required books and prerequisites.

Most online courses include a disclaimer that the institution or instructor isn’t responsible for technical problems, malfunctions or system errors.

Community colleges are one option for lower-cost online courses, but local universities offer online classes too.

The bottom line is students need to determine if online learning is an option for them because not everyone does well with this type of study.

If you can be disciplined to work independently, be computer savvy, and have at least 10 hours a week to devote to each course, then taking online courses may be a useful option.

Online courses can be affordable alternatives


uidaho.edu/discover-idaho

Top Education. Top Value.

Claim your scholarships today!

Documents

Higher education, april 17, 2016