The Office of Academic Engagement

Cougs Rise gave me the tools to be better equipped to engage in college. It provided me with a space to connect, thrive and develop.

– Jesus Valovinos Cadena

What I didn’t realize is that it would become a major part of my support system overall. ATLAS gave me encouragement to push through, guidance on issues and areas I did not understand, and the tools to make the most of my tim in Pullman. Ali was invested in my success and me as a person, from monthly (sometimes even weekly when I needed) check-ins to even attanding my senior bassoon recital. I knew that I had the support that I, a first-generation student, needed. My favorite ATLAS events were the Dead Week De-Stress events where we crafted or ate food; I still wish I could go to those now!

– Savanna Johnson

Invest in Cougs has been one of the main reasons why I have not dropped out of college. It has helped me a tremendous amount and has taught me how to manage my finances better in order to be successful… With this program I am able to invest most of my time into my education rather than worrying about additional hours at work and how I am going to pay for my books or tuition.

– Kathia Jimenez

My experience with ATLAS overall has been life changing. My advisor was always willing to lend a helping hand in my academics, and personal life. Whether that be editing my resume fro applying to graduate school, making sure I am properly balancing my academics and personal life, and just someone who is willing to listen, she always made sure to help me to the best of her ability. I am forever grateful for the experiences and time I had at ATLAS.

– Shannon Beebe

I didn’t think it was real when I read about WSU’s Invest in Cougs program. I was worried about next year, honestly… But now I can focus on earning my degree and building my career in cloud systems or data analytics… you second-guess yourself when you’re putting away money and you feel like you really need it, but in the long run, that money and the matching grants are going to help you later way more than it is now.

– Ugochukwu Nnadi