University News

"Ask a Leatherneck" Showcases Support, Services for WIU Students

April 13, 2021

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL – Western Illinois University's Rocky's Resources in the Transition and Academic Skills Center (TASC) has launched a new initiative designed to answer questions and direct students to University resources, areas of support and service.

"Ask a Leatherneck," which was created by College of Student Personnel Graduate Student Tammie Leigh Brown-Edwards, is an interview series that highlights individual departments, resources and identity centers at WIU. Interviews include conversations with graduate assistants representing each of the identity centers in the Multicultural Center, the director of the University Counseling Center, a discussion with WIU's Student Legal Advocate, as well as information about Western's Study Abroad and Outreach programs, to name a few.

"The 'Ask a Leatherneck' interview series is only one of many services provided in the Transition and Academic Skills Center to assist students in meeting their academic goals," said Michelle Janisz, TASC director. "These fun and engaging interviews with students and staff who work directly with various offices that provide social, academic and educational resources can also help students feel more connected to the University, which has been especially challenging during the coronavirus."

As part of Rocky's Resources' Academic Success Workshops, "Ask a Leatherneck" provides prospective students, current students, parents, alumni and the local community an opportunity to learn more about what Western has to offer and speaks to the dedication of University faculty, staff and students who support students inside and outside the classroom. To access "Ask a Leatherneck" interviews, visit wiu.edu/tasc/academicsuccessworkshops.php.

"Western has a wealth of resources on campus, but not every student knows what is available," added Brown-Edwards. "These interviews provide insight into what Western has to offer and how these programs are designed to encourage students. This series spotlights our outstanding University professionals who are trained, and take great pride, in fostering student success."

TASC provides various services and areas of support to assist students toward a successful transition into the WIU community. These services include Leatherneck Launch (New Student Orientation) during fall, spring and summer, which is designed to introduce new students to Western; Academic Success Coaching, which helps students achieve their academic goals; Rocky's Resources, which includes tutoring services, as well as academic success workshops for all students, and Camp Leatherneck, an engaging program for new students that takes place prior the start of the academic year, with a social focus based on the tenets of leadership, service and community.

For more information about TASC, visit wiu.edu/tasc.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing