When she was a senior in high school in 2017, Cheyanne Bumgardner said Western Oregon University caught her attention because of what she had read about it. But she knew she needed to learn more.
WOU stood out to her for many reasons, including the mid-sized campus, the small classes and the many specialized programs.
Bumgardner traveled from Grants Pass to attend WOU Preview Day and was excited to get an in-depth look at what the university had to offer.
She started Preview Day by turning in her admission application and attending a welcome from WOU Director of Admissions Rob Findtner and student ambassadors. Throughout her visit, she had many opportunities to learn about WOU’s bachelor’s degree programs and visit with current students.
“Having the opportunity to explore the buildings, see a typical room in the residence halls and ask questions to faculty and students was wonderful,” Bumgardner said.
She encourages prospective college students to attend Winter Preview Day on Saturday, Feb. 1. Online registration closes at 5 p.m. Wednesday.
“Seeing the campus in person sealed the deal for me,” Bumgardner said. “Prospective students will get to experience a day in the life on the WOU campus. They can check out the classrooms, ask students about campus life and meet faculty in the department they may be interested in studying.”
Findtner said Preview Day is for students who are starting their college search as well as high school seniors and transfer students who already have received acceptance letters from WOU.
“The program is an opportunity for students and their guests to explore and receive answers to their questions,” Findtner said.
High school seniors and transfer students can participate in the Instant Wolf (instant admission) process at check in, allowing them to get an update on their admission status by the end of the program. Students who attend the program also qualify for WOU’s $1,000 Campus Visit Award, the final day it will be offered.
Bumgardner recalls her excitement at receiving her acceptance letter on Preview Day.
“I bought some WOU gear at the Wolfstore to celebrate,” she said.
Now a sophomore, Bumgardner is enjoying all the university has to offer.
“There are many ways to get involved and make connections, and there isn’t a day that goes by where I don’t pass at least one person I know while walking around campus,” she said. “I knew WOU was where I was supposed to be, and I came to that decision by attending Preview Day.”
