Serving transfer students at regional centers

A way forward
Personal essay by Andrea Williams

Last spring, the sudden closure of Marylhurst University left more than 700 students without an academic home. Andrea Williams, Regional Center Director for EOU in Gresham, stepped up to help displaced students navigate the uncertain path forward.

There was such a range of students, from seniors with a couple of terms left, to recently enrolled students who had just begun envisioning their futures.

Being at that first transfer fair on Marylhurst’s campus was different than others we attend. There was a different feeling. It was more about guiding students through the next steps.

I can’t imagine being in those shoes. One student said she felt like she’d been in a one-sided relationship that broke off without warning. But EOU offered a light at the end of the tunnel.

The provost approved a special waiver that will allow MU students to appeal the residency requirement. Usually, transfers have to complete at least 45 credits of EOU coursework to obtain an EOU degree. In this case, though, we’ve lowered that barrier so students in distress can graduate from EOU. This is huge for upperclassmen who were on the verge of completing their degrees. One student burst into tears when I told her about it.

This willingness to work with students and meet them where they are says so much about EOU. That, coupled with our low tuition rate makes a really attractive package for students who need to fill a void left by their home institution. Our online offerings are such a good fit for working adults who don’t have the freedom to up and move when a class isn’t offered.

I find myself being more of a tour guide than a salesperson in situations like this. I’m providing some solutions and a way forward in the midst of confusion.