Gabrielle Andino
Our “Global Campus Legends” series celebrates the 30th anniversary of WSU Global Campus by putting a spotlight on the unique experiences and journeys of Global Campus students throughout the years. Each legend features a quote from student who graduated from Global Campus since it was founded as WSU Extended Degree Programs in 1992.
“Wow! Let me first start off by saying thank you to all the amazing WSU instructors and staff that took the time to communicate with me by email and by phone because I had a lot of questions throughout my time here!
I had initially looked into getting my four-year degree at a local WSU campus, but the class times offered did not align with my work schedule, and I felt as if I would never be able to pursue my degree.
When I received a flyer in the mail about Global Campus, I looked it up online and saw that they offered the human development degree I desired. Immediately I was very encouraged because I felt this was my way to pursue a degree while I worked two jobs, raised my son, and raised my two siblings after my mom passed years earlier.
Classes online were challenging, but I remember communicating with instructors as often as I needed to and becoming familiar with resources like interlibrary loan services, study sessions, and other resources put in place to help students succeed.
The biggest thing that stands out to me is how the online platform allows students to advance in their careers while working. This was so huge to me and my family—it completely changed my life. I had experienced years of poverty growing up and my kids live a very different life now.
Having a mother pass away at a young age did not leave me with a lot of support, but being able to participate in Global Campus at WSU made me feel like I did. I cannot say enough how much you have impacted my and my children’s lives forever, and I know so many others share that same sentiment. Allowing students to pursue education while they are working full-time is a huge gift to society. I hope that you all continue to evolve and add more great programs!
More memories that stand out to me include serving on student government as a senator. I didn’t expect the role to allow me to bring my children to family-friendly events with fellow Cougs. To me that meant I did not have to leave my children behind. They were able to be a part of the journey with me and that was extremely important to me.
At Global Campus I felt that I had the means to balance my work, family, and school life. Thank you all for thinking of others in all walks of life when creating this campus! Please keep doing what you are doing, it is changing the world!
-Gabrielle Andino, ‘18