April Bradley is a graduating student from Aumsville, Ore., and she is completing a degree in Information Systems. While at WOU, Bradley has served as the family housing apartment manager for Alderview.

 

Are you a transfer student? If so, where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like?
Yes, however I worked for 15 years at Willamette University before returning back to school. I took classes at Big Bend Community College in Moses Lake, WA from 2000-02. I also took a few classes through Linfield’s adult degree program around 2005 and I also took two classes at Willamette University while employed there. I worked in college admission at Willamette for the last 7 years, so the transfer process was easy for me. I always feel for anyone that goes through the college admission process.  Each school is different and it brings additional stress on the student.

 

Are you a first-generation student? What has your experience been like?
Yes, since I’m well aware of the additional barriers for first generation students, I knew where to look for additional resources like family housing and the on-campus preschool for my son which has empowered me to succeed in school.

 

Why did you choose WOU?
Location, programs, feels like a small private school but is public and that makes it affordable. Basically the best value.

 

What has been your most memorable class?
Project Management by Chris Brooks.

 

What have some of your extracurriculars been?
My job as family housing apartment manager here in Alderview. Working as a family housing manager has allowed me to get to know my fellow neighbors/residents on campus. I’m also an avid-long distance runner. I have run both Cascade Lakes Relay and Hood to Coast in addition to half-marathons while attending WOU. I ran a marathon in May 2013 in Vancouver, Canada. It was an amazing experience.

 

Do you have any advice for current and prospective students?
Take full advantage of the programs, clubs, etc that are offered at WOU. Don’t stress too much about your grades. Do your best, this is a learning environment, it’s ok to get things wrong, that’s the point.

 

What has been the highlight of your time at WOU?
Making new friends as a non-traditional student.

 

Who stands out from your time at WOU?
Professors: Chris Brooks, Ted Beers

Students: Natalie Legras, Austin Schmidt, Matt Wick

 

What was your most visited spot on campus?
Classroom & Library, it’s where I prepared with my classmates on projects and class time.

 

What do you love most about the major/minors you completed?
Very knowledgeable and accessible staff/faculty.

 

What has been your biggest achievement, success or accomplishment in college?
Graduating with honors, maintaining employment, and practicing self-care.

 

What do you know now that you wish you knew your first term in college?
Just keep going.

 

What are your plans for after graduation?
Secure a job so I can support myself and my family.