Published February 2003

Free college seminar aimed at working adults

Kimberly Hilden
SCBJ Assistant Editor

Working adults looking to start or continue in higher education often come to The University Center at Everett Station with a lot of questions, said Gina Murray, coordinator of student services.

There are questions about tuition, scholarships and loans; on-site programs and online options; and resources available locally to help make the trip back to school viable.

To answer those questions, the Washington State University Learning Center, in partnership with The University Center and the local branch of the American Association of University Women, is sponsoring a free satellite conference, “College Knowledge for Adults,” from 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 6 at Everett Station, 3210 Smith Ave.

Broadcast from Pullman to 22 locations throughout the state, the program will include an introduction from Mona Locke, wife of Washington Gov. Gary Locke, with a pre-recorded speech titled “Motivation and Inspiration,” Murray said.

The program will provide information for those in every stage of the process — from those just beginning their college careers or who have started but not completed a degree to those pursuing additional education in the form of graduate degrees or technical programs.

Experts in financial aid and scholarship opportunities and admissions will be available to provide information and answer questions, and participants also will learn about local educational options.

There also will be student testimonials, Murray said, as well as a segment on careers from WorkSource that will be broadcast from Everett Station.

Open to the public, the conference is aimed at working adults and addressing the issues they face, she said.

“Typically, they haven’t gone back (to school) because they feel there might be barriers. This is to break down those barriers, make the process easier and let them know that there are others out there making those same decisions (to return to school),” Murray said.

Along with the panel discussion and testimonials, Washington Mutual has donated money for several scholarship drawings, with winners being drawn at random and each participant having an opportunity to win, she said.

For more information or to pre-register, call 425-259-8602. Those with a disability requiring special accommodation while participating in the program can call the WSU Learning Center, 360-538-4242.

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