Provost: College marks new chapter in book of life

Week of Welcome is a magical time in the life of WSU. Our campuses at Pullman, Spokane, Vancouver and the Tri Cities spring back to life as students, faculty and staff reconvene after the summer. A buzz of new activity surrounds residence halls, fraternities and sororities, the Bookie, the CUB and every academic department.

Week of Welcome is the start of the academic calendar and, for many of you, the start of a brand new chapter in your life.

Beginnings are important, and how you begin your college career – or this year of your college career – is critical to your overall success as a Coug. I encourage you to set aside some time in the hustle and bustle of this week to think about what you can do right now to guarantee you meet your long-term goals.

There are several very practical steps you can take immediately to increase your chances of truly succeeding: Learn your schedule and find your classrooms well before the first day of class. Go to class – every day. Introduce yourself to your professors and know that they are a valuable resource. Take advantage of the opportunities to engage in your classes and in the community. Get enough sleep.

Our responsibility is to help you succeed. In fact, the Office of the Provost has several new initiatives and programs that will help. First, all incoming students have been provided “The A Game: Nine Steps to Better Grades,” a guidebook for student success that you should read and follow during your time at WSU.

The book’s author, Dr. Ken Sufka, will be on campus during Week of Welcome delivering seminars and workshops to students, instructors and advisers. In addition, several other seminars and workshops will be available throughout Week of Welcome to acclimate students to WSU and provide assistance in making the jump to a four-year institution.

I have been involved with higher education for most of my life, and I never tire of the excitement that accompanies the start of each new academic year. It is a time of fun and possibility. It’s going to be a great year for you and WSU. Welcome, and go Cougs!