Kyle, current RPTA graduate student
MA in Political Science, 2022

Welcome to Western

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Special Message from a Graduate Student

Welcome to Western Illinois University. In your first year of graduate school you will learn and develop the necessary tools to not only enhance your education but to prepare you for the post-graduate life, whether it be more schooling or jumping into the work force. Here at Western you will be taught by an experienced faculty and staff, that provides not only class discussion and assignments, but will provide one-on-one training and assistance to help you succeed in your choice of program. Our faculty is from all over the world and will provide their perspective and knowledge to allow you to expand your base and get a better understanding of your field of study. Also, do not be afraid to reach out to your professors. They want to see you succeed and will help you throughout your studies here.

Graduate School can be stressful, and to help ease the stress Western provides free personal counseling and crisis services through the University Counseling Center. Beu Health Center will also provide you with any non-emergency medical needs you may have. Western also provides students the opportunity to receive academic support and tutoring if you are having troubles in your courses. Western provides career planning and support for students preparing themselves for the work force.

Western will provide you an experience you will never forget. I received my undergraduate degree here as well and the last 6 years have been the greatest time. The experiences I had the opportunity to receive will be with me forever. I have made lifetime friends. There is more to Western than just the academics. The student life is incredible. Western has over 150 student organizations and it is easy to be involved. The quad is filled up during the activities fair and gives you the opportunity to see all these organizations at once. My favorite time of the year is Homecoming week. It brings out the competitiveness in everybody. Plus, you get to see the alumni come back for tailgating and the football game. And I cannot forget about our lovely mascot Colonel Rocky IV and seeing him in his little Western uniform. 

Western has a great atmosphere, and as much as I loved everything I did, my favorite experience here at Western is learning about and interacting with people from all different religions, cultures, and lifestyles.

Again, welcome to Western, where it is always a great day to be a Leatherneck and remember to Neck Up!