Student and Graduate Testimonials

"If it weren't for WUE, I don't know how I would afford college -- especially out-of-state tuition, since it's so expensive. The fact that people are investing their time and money to help me be successful is overwhelming. WUE has helped me realize that I want to pursue a career in student affairs and higher education so that I can encourage students to pursue college studies and be successful too. So many students see furthering their education as a foreign concept and I want to help them break that limiting perception. WUE, along with the support of everyone around me, makes me realize that truly anything is possible."

"I’m a recipient of WICHE’s PSEP support which provides me with in-state tuition at the University of Colorado’s physician assistant program. Wyoming doesn’t have its own program, so my studies would have been exceedingly expensive without financial assistance from WICHE. I focused my applications for graduate school within the WICHE region because I knew it was the only way I could fund my post-graduate studies, and I was not let down. Without this program I would have paid over twice as much for my entire first year (over 50 credit hours) of school in Colorado, which makes WICHE an incredible “scholarship”. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity WICHE has provided me."

"I was not going to attend a university because tuition and fees were just too expensive. WUE program gave me access to a less expensive education and an experience that I will always take with me. I am a first-generation college student, and my family is proud. Thank you WUE! "

"I was eager to join the Oregon Health and Science University to earn my Doctorate in Nursing Practice working as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. However earning a doctoral degree in the nursing profession is a costly endeavor, especially if you're paying out-of-state tuition. Although I was fully prepared to cut out any and all superfluous expenses, the correlation between how financially indebted one is to how successful they can be in school is undeniable. The stress of accruing enormous school loans was overwhelming, which is why I sincerely appreciate WRGP! WRGP affords me peace of mind and the ability to responsibly pursue my dream of working with the underserved population desperately in need of mental health services."

"The California Maritime Academy was the only institution on the West Coast where I could pursue my career dreams. No other college around Seattle offers even a remotely similar program. My family couldn't afford to send me to Cal Maritime without the immense help that we have received from the WUE scholarship. Thanks to WUE, I've been able to focus on my studies and have been very successful at Cal Maritime. Thank you! "

"Going to school out-of-state was never an option until I learned about the WUE program. I am originally from California, but wanted to go to school in a different state. WUE makes going to college more affordable, which has given me the optimism I needed to earn a college degree. Without WUE, I would have not been able to attend Northern Arizona University where I have made great connections that will allow me to pursue my dream career."

"Being the oldest of three children active in sports and dance meant that going to school at home in California wouldn't be affordable without a scholarship. Thanks to WICHE's WUE, I'm able to go to a school I love for less than what I would have paid in my home state! The reduced tuition helps take some stress off of my parents and me. Without WUE, I wouldn't have the opportunities and experiences I've had over the last year and a half. I really hope that this program continues so that more students can benefit. Thanks to WUE, my future's off to a great start."

"WUE gave me the chance to study in the mainland. I lived in Hawaii all my life and thought I'd stay in Hawaii for college. When I learned about WUE, I realized that I could go to college in another state--I had many more options than I initially thought. The reduced WUE tuition was affordable, and many of my fellow students from all over the West were using WUE at NAU."

"I knew I didn't want to go to college in my home state because I wanted to get away and experience new things. Thanks to WUE, I was able to go to Northern Arizona where they have an excellent hotel and restaurant management program. Thanks to the WUE discount, I'm able to focus on my studies and enjoy a new home at the same time. School is more affordable because of WUE and I don't have to worry about a huge debt load when I graduate."

"I grew up in a rural community and wanted to go out of state for college once I graduated. I knew that without a good scholarship or some sort of luck it would not become a reality. I did some research about the programs offered through MSU Denver and stumbled upon WUE. It was a very easy to apply, and my application was approved! Without WUE, I wouldn't be able to live in the beautiful State of Colorado nor experience the awesome learning environment that the Auraria campus provides. "

"WUE has been such an amazing gift and has made enrolling in the exercise science program at Northern Arizona University affordable. Many of my classmates have received the WUE award as well. I love going to college out of state and don't have to pay outrageous tuition bills. I wouldn't be able to attend school out of state without WUE, and am so thankful for it!"

"WUE made it affordable for my family to help pay for my education. It made attending NAU possible, because I could go out of state at minimal cost. Thank you WUE, I could not have graduated if I weren't for this program!"

"Thanks to WUE, my dream to go to college out of state became achievable. Coming from a low income family, going to college at all was a stretch, let alone the university of my dreams! "

"I knew that I wanted to go out of state for college, but I also knew that I couldn't afford to pay full nonresident tuition. Thanks to WUE, going to college is so much more affordable. My parents love it! Choosing to go out of state was the best decision I've ever made."

"I am so grateful for WUE. It allowed me to attend an out of state university in Arizona without paying full nonresident tuition. I graduated and was able to find a job in my field. Even though I returned to Nevada, I am so grateful for the opportunity and experiences that I had in Arizona. WUE has allowed me and many other friends and family members to access affordable education in fields that might not have available in their home state."

"The WUE program has made it much easier to afford school, even though it is still a bit of a struggle. If it weren't for WUE, I wouldn't be enrolled at NAU because I didn't have had the funds for out-of-state tuition. Thanks WUE!"

"Without WUE, I would not be in college. My mother is a single mom and is not working right now. WUE is the only reason I'm in school. The lower tuition is greatly appreciated. Thank you!"

"When I was looking at universities in high school, many institutions in Washington were facing tuition increases nearing 30% in some cases. In addition to this, I loved to travel. WICHE's Western Undergraduate Exchange program provided the best of both worlds for me: financial stability and a great experience at an out of state university. Instead of putting myself and my family deep in debt, I was able to study in Arizona and pay less than if I stayed in state. I am thankful for this program and tell all prospective students on tours at NAU about the great benefits! Best of all, many of the majors I was interested in were available at the WUE rate, so I could change my major later and still benefit from the program. "

"WUE allows me attend NAU without worry about rising tuition, because they offer a special four-year fixed tuition program in addition to the discounted WUE rate. I was accepted to all 10 of the schools I applied to, but after carefully looking at all my options, I chose NAU because it went above and beyond my expectations and offered the WUE rate. Now I do not have to worry about rising tuition costs and can focus more on my future career in the hospitality industry."

"The WUE program has allowed me to study in another state without worrying about the debt I will have when I graduate. I am a first generation college student, and money has always been an issue concerning my college education. I am thankful for WUE because it's helped me and many other students to not only better themselves, but make life better for their families. Without WUE, I would have not been able to exceed academically and achieve my professional goal of becoming an environmental engineer."

"WUE changed my life. I got accepted into an accelerated honors program called ITEC at CSU, Chico. It’s for liberal study majors who aspire to be elementary school teachers. Being from Washington, the price of out-of-state tuition would have been too high for my family and me to afford. However thanks to WUE, I am now at Chico State pursuing my dream to change children’s lives. My gratitude is endless, and words cannot express how blessed I am to be a part of the WUE program."

"Before I was awarded the Western Undergraduate Exchange scholarship, I was limited to in-state study because of tuition prices, and none of the schools were the best fit for my academic goals. Thanks to WUE, I am able to attend my dream school -- Western Washington University -- and pursue a concentration along with my degree through the Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary Studies. I am so thankful to be a recipient of this award because it allowed me to attend the college that fits me best. WICHE rocks!"

"WUE makes dreams possible. Without it, I wouldn't have been able to pursue my college aspirations in the manner I had hoped and planned ever since I was in 5th grade. One of my top priorities was to experience a new living environment, meet a more diverse group of people and gain exposure to a variety of educational opportunities not available in my home state. With college costs almost doubling in the past few years, I faced financial constraints which limited my choices. WUE made it possible for me to follow my dreams within my budget. I wake up every day excited -- and grateful -- to be working towards my scholastic goals. It is a competitive program, but worth every effort. I am proud to be a participant and I will always value the opportunity WUE provided me."

"I was passionate about becoming an osteopathic physician, but there are no public universities in my home state of Arizona that offer a D.O. degree. The steep cost of attending a private medical school was a harsh reality of pursuing my dreams of a career as a physician. Receiving PSEP support from WICHE will greatly reduce my debt and it allows me to focus on succeeding in medical school. It also reduces the pressure to go into a higher-paying medical specialty in order to pay off immense student loan debt. I look forward to serving the residents of Arizona who are in need of healthcare, and I am so thankful to WICHE for this invaluable program."

"Pursuing an education has always been a high priority, yet so has maintaining control of my finances. It seemed for a time that I was going to have choose between the two options, as private school tuition rates are increasingly high. Thanks to WICHE's PSEP program, I've been able to pursue the education I value so highly while receiving some much appreciated financial assistance that keeps it affordable. I am grateful that the WICHE program is providing opportunities to educate and prepare future healthcare professionals like me for the State of Arizona."

"When I was first looking at different colleges I was only considering schools in my home state. I knew I had a limited budget to work with and private schools were out of my price range. The WUE program allowed me to greatly increase my options. The cost to attend WUE institutions out of state still fell within my budget. Eventually I chose to attend California Maritime Academy; it offers opportunities that no other school on the West Coast has. I am now enrolled in their marine transportation program. Without WUE, I never would have found out about Cal Maritime, and I certainly wouldn't have been able to afford it! I can't stress enough how important this program is to the students who use it. For me personally, a career in the marine transportation industry wouldn't be possible without WUE. "

"WICHE is one of the best access programs for educating healthcare professionals in the United States. With the rising costs of tuition, housing and other living expenses, the reduced tuition I pay thanks to PSEP is a huge help. The total cost of attendance for four years of optometry school is over $200,000. WICHE support reduces the costs to a much more manageable level. Students really need programs like WICHE; I hope that future healthcare students will have this program available for years to come."

"WICHE's PSEP has been a great blessing to my optometry career. My home state doesn't have an optometry program, so WICHE was the only affordable option. The financial relief it has provided will also enable me to serve third world countries on missions earlier in my career. I encourage our legislature to continue to support this incredible program. North Dakota's participation in WICHE's PSEP has not only educated one more optometrist to serve the state, but will also provide eye care to many underserved people around the world with the service trips I will be able to take. Thank you for investing in your future healthcare professionals! "

"WICHE's PSEP has allowed me to reduce what I pay in tuition so that I have money for living expenses while I'm in optometry school. The support will make my total loan accumulation lower so that I won't have to spend years in debt. PSEP has made a tremendous difference in my way of life while in optometry school; it's allowed me to focus on my studies and not worry about my financial situation."

"After graduating with my optometry degree, I returned to Wyoming and set out to buy a established community practice. My debt-to-income ratio was high, but fortunately not so high that it precluded me from securing a loan to buy my own practice. Thanks to the WICHE PSEP support I received in school, I was able to avoid private loans. Had I been forced to take those private loans, my debt ratio would have been much higher and my business loan would not have been possible. PSEP allowed me to attend my first choice school and come back to Wyoming to serve the people in a rural area. Thank you!"

"As the cost of health care rises, so does the cost of obtaining a professional, graduate education. I'm a second-year medical student studying to become a doctor of osteopathic medicine. At the end of my four years, I hope to be able to obtain a residency in emergency medicine. Without Arizona's participation in WICHE's PSEP, the cost of embarking on such endeavor would have been a burden too heavy to bear. Thank you, WICHE, for such a wonderful program. "

"I was thrilled to receive the WRGP resident tuition rate and attend the University of Colorado Boulder. WRGP made it possible for me to go to CU Boulder, where I've received an education that has prepared me well for my field and offered me a broad and thorough perspective that I can take with me wherever I go in the future. I know many other individuals who have also benefited from WICHE student exchange programs and their expressions of gratitude are a testament to the high value of this opportunity. Thank you WICHE!"

"I was awarded WICHE PSEP support after I had started physician assistant school; I was very grateful as it helped a tremendous amount. PA school is very costly and it helped reduce the amount of loans I needed. I had good communication with the local office and had no problem fulfilling the service payback requirement of working with the underserved in my home state of Nevada. I highly recommend the program. "

"The cost of dental school is prohibitive for those of us without the benefit of in-state tuition. The PSEP program has helped me to reach my goals by easing the financial burden of attending school, and by giving me a leg up on the highly competitive application process. Thanks to PSEP, I will be able to return to the home I love in Alaska with a world class education and the chance to serve my community. "

"I am studying to become an optometrist at the Southern California College of Optometry. My home state of Wyoming does not have a optometry school, so my only options were out-of-state. WICHE drastically reduces tuition, which makes attending school much more affordable. And, I'll graduate with less student loan debt compared to other students. I am the first member of my family to attend post-graduate school, and I would like to thank the WICHE program for helping make my dreams a reality! I am excited to graduate and go back to serve the wonderful people of Wyoming. "

"I've wanted a master's in urban design for years now, and the reduced tuition through WICHE's WRGP made it financially feasible for me to further my education. I am attending the University of Colorado at Denver, and if it wasn't for the resident rate I pay by enrolling through WRGP, I wouldn't be here. I am so grateful for this opportunity, and I hope many other students take advantage of this wonderful program."

"I have been a professional boat captain for seven years. I am paying for school myself, without help or assistance from outside sources. I never imagined being able to afford to go back to school until I heard of the WUE program. I wanted to attend California Maritime Academy for several years and thanks to WUE, it became reality. With the degree and license I will receive, I'll be able to secure the job of my dreams. I never could have done it without the immense help and support of WICHE. Thank you so much. "

"The WUE program has provided an affordable option for my college studies. My options for majors were limited since my home state has only one university, so studying out-of-state was the best solution for me. WUE has allowed me to attend an excellent school and pursue a field of study that interests me, and graduate with less debt."

"I am originally from New Mexico. The school I received my bachelor's from didn't offer the graduate program I needed to fulfill my educational goals. Instead, I set my sights on a program at Southern Oregon University and WRGP made it affordable. My time out of state has expanded my worldview and changed my life for the better. Thank you WRGP for supporting my dreams!"

"WRGP has helped me achieve my academic and professional goals. If it weren't for the reduced tuition I pay by enrolling through WRGP, I wouldn't have been able to attend my school of first choice, the University of Arizona. The U of A has one of the best public health programs but out-of-state tuition is extremely high and my chances of going there were slim if I didn't get some sort of financial help. I am currently in my first year of MPH studies and loving it."

"I'm not sure how I ever would have been able to pay for Cal Maritime's out-of-state tuition. With WUE, I was able to save a lot of money and attend this school at a reasonable price. Thanks to WUE, my education is more affordable."

"With the help of the WICHE-PSEP program and the generosity of the State of Hawai'i, I am able to pursue my dream of becoming a physical therapist. WICHE made it possible for me to attend a nationally-ranked program without excessive financial burden. Thanks to PSEP, I've been able to devote my time to becoming the best healthcare professional I can be without worrying about money. It's been a blessing to discover what life is like miles away from home, but I look forward to returning to Hawai'i and serving the island community. I greatly appreciate Hawai'i's support and will continue to make the most of this opportunity. The WICHE program is invaluable, and I urge all those who are eligible to apply. It’s always encouraging to know that you have people who believe in you and want to see you succeed."

"The California Maritime Academy is one of seven maritime academies and the only one on the West Coast. Cal Maritime offers very distinct and focused disciplines of study. I was interested in political science, international relations, and ocean security when I was looking at colleges as a senior in high school. Cal Maritime had a program that met ALL my interests and all rolled into one four-year program -- something my home state universities didn't have. I thought I couldn't afford to attend because of the high out-of-state tuition costs. Luckily, I was awarded WICHE's WUE discount and that made it feasible. I encourage our Western legislators to continue supporting WICHE student exchange programs to help students who can't get their major in their home state. Without WICHE I would not be a cadet at Cal Maritime, receiving a degree in global studies and maritime affairs. "

"I am a resident of Montana and am currently studying medicine at the University of North Dakota School. Montana does not have a medical school and most medical schools have limited spots for out of state students. Thanks to WICHE's PSEP, I was considered for admittance to North Dakota's medical program. Enrolling at UND has also allowed me the opportunity to stay in a rural state, and with lower debt I will have more freedom in choosing my specialty. I want to return to my home state to practice medicine. I believe that WICHE PSEP support has a huge impact on the future of the medical community in rural states. "

"Growing up in Montana, I always knew I wanted to get out and explore the diverse experiences available in a bigger city and state. WRGP made it possible for me to attend graduate school in Washington where I am already gaining valuable opportunities that will shape my career as a speech-language pathologist. Without the support of WRGP, my goal of going out of state to obtain my master's wouldn't have been possible. When I graduate, my debt load will be much lighter and that will allow me to provide services in the areas of early intervention and the public school system. I am blessed to call Montana home and plan on returning in the future to work with children with communication disorders."

"I am a Wyoming girl, born and raised, and am currently in my clinical year at ISU's physician assistant program. I am beyond grateful for WICHE's PSEP program and the state's assistance in my medical education. I commend the Wyoming WICHE certifying officers for their assistance during the application process; they are personable and very knowledgeable. I am so thankful that Wyoming is committed to providing professional education opportunities for its residents. With WICHE support significantly decreasing my debt, I will be able to provide quality healthcare with less financial strain. I am proud to represent my state and want to pay it forward when I begin my own practice in Wyoming. I want to express my deep gratitude to legislators who are committed to providing funding for this program. I vehemently urge our legislature and policymakers to maintain and increase WICHE PSEP funding. You have truly made a difference in my life!"

"When I began the DNP program at the University of Utah, I was still paying off my student loans for my BSN and MSN. WICHE's WRGP program has allowed me to pursue my DNP without significantly increasing my existing debt load. In addition, I'm also an educator at the university level so my earning power is lower now than it was when I was practicing in the public sector. Adding another degree and its financial obligations to my decreased salary is a great concern. WRGP has allowed me to do what I need and want to do, as I am setting an example for my children and my students. "

"Knowing that WICHE's PSEP was available to me as a financial aid resource was an important factor in applying to physical therapy school. Almost every student preparing a professional graduate degree carries a tremendous burden, as they must borrow tens of thousands of dollars just for tuition alone; not to mention money for rent, food and transportation. Without PSEP I may have had to rethink career options or even delay my schooling. It gave me the confidence that I could financially support myself. I count myself very fortunate to have the opportunity to attend a great program with financial support from WICHE. PSEP has reduced my student loan repayment obligations by years, and I appreciate every sacrifice that has made this program possible. "

"After years of juggling work, school, and family, I was accepted into pharmacy school. Although I considered the cost of attendance prior to enrolling, I felt overwhelmed when it was time pay tuition. I even began to question my decision to enroll in the program that I had worked so hard to get into. Thankfully, I received notification that I was awarded WICHE PSEP support. Thanks to PSEP, I can more easily focus on my education and becoming the best healthcare professional I can be."

"I was born and raised on a ranch in rural Nevada so animals were a huge part of my life growing up. From a very young age I knew I wanted to dedicate my career to improving their health and welfare. Nevada does not have a veterinary program so completing my education in my home state was not possible. However, thanks to WICHE’s PSEP, I was able to pursue my dream profession at Colorado State University. Without WICHE, I would not have been able to afford it. PSEP made my life-long dream come true! I hope that our legislators will continue to appreciate how important the program is for so many students, and that they'll continue to provide funding to build Nevada's healthcare workforce."

"My home state did not offer a master's program in health physics. Through WICHE's WRGP, I was able to look at other schools in the West and decided on Colorado State University. I am now enrolled in one of the leading health physics programs in the country!"

"I applied to graduate school in Colorado thinking that I was an in-state resident since I was already living and working here. When I saw my first tuition bill I was horrified. It turned that I was just short of a full year to be classified as a resident, and there was no way that I could be able to pay the out-of-state tuition. I was crushed when I realized that I would have to give up this great opportunity because I couldn’t possibly add that much more debt to the undergraduate loans I was still trying to pay off. Fortunately, I realized that I qualified for WRGP because I was still considered a California resident. Now I'm back on track and have the opportunity to earn my master's in urban design, and make the connections that I need to start my design career. None of this would be feasible without WICHE's WRGP."

"Because Montana has no medical school, I had to go out of state for my physician studies. It was only through the WICHE PSEP program that I received preferential admission to UND, and WICHE support has reduced my tuition and decrease my loans by almost 30 percent. I am so thankful for my home state of Montana's funding through WICHE. I plan to return to serve as a physician in a rural Montana hospital following my graduation and residency. Thank you for making my career possible!"

"Being a first generation college student for both my undergraduate degree and my professional studies, it has always been a constant struggle of what I can and cannot afford. With tuition costs increasing every year, taking on the burden of student loan debt is daunting. Thanks to the generosity of programs such as WICHE's PSEP, I have been allowed the opportunity to pursue a career in pharmacy. I encourage my home state to continue supporting students through PSEP, so that future generations can also follow their dreams without taking on excessive financial burden."

"I am currently studying optometry in Fullerton, California at one of the best schools in the country. Without a doubt, the WICHE program helped make this possible. With its preferred admission benefits, I was able to choose between two excellent schools, and I chose SCCO. Not only did WICHE's PSEP help me with admission, but it has made my schooling affordable for my wife and me. I absolutely encourage my home state of Wyoming to continue with the WICHE program to help other Wyoming residents become healthcare professionals. "

"WICHE PSEP support is one of the main reasons I was able to apply to and financially justify going to veterinary school to achieve my dream of becoming a veterinarian. I applied to some of the best vet schools in the country and was admitted and funded through the WICHE program. I was able to choose the school that fit me the best, instead of settling for a program based only on affordability. I've been in vet school for over a year now and am having the time of my life!"

"The WRGP reduced tuition rate made it affordable to enroll in the online DOT education program offered through the University of Utah's Occupational Therapy Division. I pay resident tuition instead of nonresident so my family's lifestyle and finances are not significantly affected. I am excited about this great opportunity. I am able to continue working and live with my family while studying for a much desired degree. I plan to look for a faculty position in the near future and want to continue sharing my love for occupational therapy with students."

"Due to the tuition reduction provided by WUE, I was able to attend school at CSU in Fort Collins, CO. I am very interested in the environmental impact that humans have on our environment and in improving ways of quantifying this impact. By attending school at CSU, I was able to meet many high-profile researchers and scientists working in this field. I worked in a research lab for four years and then was given an opportunity to work on remote-sensing technologies being developed for the next generation of NASA satellites while being paid to obtain my master's degree. This technology is exactly what I wanted to work on, as it provides a means of accurately measuring the levels of the ocean and large inland bodies of water globally."

"I just finished my first year of veterinary school at Colorado State University. Since my home state of Wyoming does not have a veterinary college, I was fortunate enough to be sponsored by my state through the WICHE program. This program has allowed me to pursue my lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian. When I think of my classmates who are paying out-of-state tuition, I am so thankful that I have the WICHE program to help me keep my student loans to a reasonable amount. Even though Wyoming does not require WICHE students to return to the state after graduation, I plan on returning anyway because I want to give back to the state that has given me so much. I hope the legislators continue to support this invaluable program, even in these tough economic times."

"WICHE has helped me so much. Words can not explain the gratitude I feel for receiving PSEP support. I will graduate in 2012 without the feeling of drowning in debt for a lifetime. I can begin a job without the pressure of paying back as many loans while my husband and I are starting a family. Thank you so much, WICHE!"

"I am from Taos and have wanted to be a veterinarian since I was a little girl. New Mexico does not have a veterinary school, but thanks to WICHE's PSEP I have been able to attend one of the best schools in the nation at an affordable price. I am so thankful. WICHE's program has truly made my dreams a reality!"

"My top choice for veterinary school was Colorado State University. Being from Montana, paying out-of-state tuition influenced my ability to attend. When I was accepted as a WICHE PSEP student, I was ecstatic! Going to CSU was a dream come true, and I am excited to return to Montana after graduation to practice. I strongly encourage our Montana legislators to continue support for this valuable program. Thank you Montana for giving me this opportunity!"

"WICHE's PSEP is helping me more than anything to achieve my goal of becoming a small animal veterinarian. Because my home state of Nevada does not have a veterinary school, I had no choice but to attend an out-of-state school for my education. PSEP is allowing me to study at Colorado State University for the in-state cost, which lets me incur significantly less debt. For this I am grateful. Veterinary school is stressful enough without the added financial strain. Thank you, Nevada, for your support of this important program!"

"I am a fourth-year dental student in Arizona and have been part of the WICHE's PSEP for four years. With its help I was able to attend dental school in my home state and at my top-choice program. PSEP has significantly reduced my dental school debt. Because of this I have been able to pursue my goal of working in rural communities and community health centers through external rotations. After graduation my goal is to work as a dental provider in Arizona and continue to serve my community. I am a first-generation graduate student in my family, and without the financial support of the WICHE program, I may not have been able to pursue my education. My family and I are extremely grateful for the WICHE program and the doors it has opened for me. I wholeheartedly support WICHE and encourage legislators to continue this program. It really makes a difference in the lives of students with dreams of becoming healthcare professionals."

"The WICHE program made it possible for me to achieve my dream of becoming a doctor of veterinary medicine. I would not have been able to attend veterinary school without this financial assistance--the income for veterinarians is not sufficient to pay back the massive amounts of debt that out-of-state tuition entails. I plan on moving back to Montana and practicing veterinary medicine there, and this would not have been possible without the State of Montana's support. I urge Montana legislators to continue to fund this valuable program that gives Montana residents an affordable DVM education, so that we can return and help cover the shortage of professionals in rural areas the state."

"I am studying natural resources and environmental management at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. I am from California and always wanted to attend school out of state. WICHE allowed me to do this, and for that I am forever grateful. In addition, I was able to enroll in a academic program unlike any available in my home town. This is a great program that allows students to expand their horizons. I hope it continues in the future."

"Being a WICHE recipient has made it possible for me to attend dental school. I don't know that I could feed my family if I had not received this support. Without this aid I would be spending more on tuition this year than I did on my house! I am excited to practice my profession in Arizona and give back to the community and state that has given so much to me."

"I am from New Mexico and attend ASDOH through WICHE's PSEP. In addition to being one of the states that does not have a dental school, New Mexico is ranked 49th in the nation for the number of dentists per capita. New Mexico needs dentists who are willing to work in underserved areas to provide optimal patient care. ASDOH graduates culturally competent and community-responsive dentists – exactly what New Mexico needs. WICHE's PSEP is essential to making it affordable for New Mexican students to attend dental school and return to serve fellow New Mexicans. I am grateful to WICHE for helping make dental school possible."

"Montana does not have a dental school, so I had to go out of state to pursue my professional endeavors. I am very fortunate to receive help through WICHE's Professional Student Exchange Program (PSEP) because the funding has helped me cover part of the cost of my dental education. Unlike many of my peers (including several students from Montana), I will not have an overwhelming amount of school loans when I graduate; thus, I will be in the position to return to Montana and provide oral health services to our underserved populations. PSEP is an invaluable program that not only helps students finance their professional education but also encourages them to return to their home state and provide needed services to their communities. Thank you, WICHE, for giving me the opportunity to pursue my career goals."

"I appreciate this program for the flexibility it has offered me and my family. I needed to get an official endorsement for being a teacher of the visually impaired, which is not offered in the State of Alaska. I have a family and a job, so leaving the state was really not an option. Portland State University is one of only three online programs that would allow me to get my endorsement and not leave Alaska. WRGP solidified my decision to study with PSU: it made my pursuit affordable, and I did not need to pay for housing or leave my family. I could also continue to serve the visually impaired community in my state through my job. Thank you for giving me this opportunity. "

"I am currently in the Physician Assistant Program at A.T. Still University/Arizona School of Health Sciences. WICHE has helped with the tremendous cost associated with private schooling. I used my entire GI Bill funding for my undergrad education, and I'm very thankful that WICHE has allowed me to continue my professional education with greatly reduced debt. Thank you so much for such a wonderful program!"

"I am studying medicine at Touro University in Nevada and am enrolled through WICHE's PSEP. My home state did not have a medical school, and with WICHE I am able to attend medical school out of state at a low cost. I encourage legislators to continue to support the WICHE programs, which allow many students the opportunity to expand their educational experiences at an affordable cost. I plan to return to Montana as an ob-gyn and provide healthcare to an ever-growing state that is in need of young physicians. Thank you for this opportunity and support; without the financial aide I would not have been able to pursue my dreams!"

"WICHE support afforded me the opportunity to attend physical therapy school. I come from Hawaii, a state without a DPT program. The wonderful WICHE program gave me the opportunity to receive a great education in Arizona, something that would have otherwise been a significant financial hardship for my entire family. I have since graduated with a doctorate degree, am currently practicing in the profession that I love, and am now in the position to give back to my community. Thank you, WICHE!"

"I am attending dental school at the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, and part of the reason is because of the wonderful opportunity that the WICHE program provides. The State of New Mexico does not have a dental school, so the WICHE program helps to make the tuition affordable. I am truly grateful to be a part of this program and hope to continue to be for the remainder of my time in dental school. Thank you very much!"

"Earning a doctorate, becoming a university professor, and assisting others to become excellent teachers, these have been lifelong dreams – for many years just pipe dreams, due to the cost of higher education. Unfortunately, Washington State does not offer a Ph.D. program in special education of low-incidence populations, so I had started looking at out-of-state programs, which were prohibitively expensive. I am now attending a university in Colorado and receiving a top-rate education in my field that I would otherwise never have been able to afford. WRGP has made this possible, and I am deeply grateful for this opportunity that I have been given. Thank you so much."

"Washington State doesn't not have a professional program for teachers of children with visual impairments. Because this is a unique educational niche, there are only a handful of programs in the entire nation. Not every university or every state can afford to support teacher preparation programs in sensory disabilities because the programs are typically small and don’t always draw enough students to be broadly cost effective. Most students who embark on their master’s or doctoral studies in the field of visual impairments and blindness are actually doing so as a second career. As a full-time teacher with a family and a mortgage, I would not have been able to return to school to pursue either my master's or my doctoral studies without WRGP's support. WRGP is a critical and cost-effective way of sharing resources and ensuring potential teachers have access to high-quality training and education. That, in turn, ensures that schools, parents, and students in the West have access to teachers of children with visual impairments."

"The University of Hawaii has access to resources in East Asia that I would not be able to get anywhere else. However, given the high cost of living in Hawaii, attending school there would have been very difficult. I am married with a kid on the way, so things are tight. The help from WICHE makes it much easier for me to complete my education with the resources I need."

"WICHE's PSEP has made a huge difference in my life. I have known that I wanted to be a dentist since I was 10 years old, but getting to dental school is quite a task, and financing it is even harder. PSEP has helped me realize my goals not only by supporting me financially but also by being a continual reminder that I will one day serve the great state of New Mexico. New Mexico has a tremendous need for dental care, especially in rural and underserved areas. Going into dental school, I knew I wanted to be involved in public health dentistry but didn't know how. For two years WICHE supported me while I attended school at the Oregon Health & Sciences University. However, in April I decided to transfer to the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health to increase my knowledge of public health dentistry. PSEP supported me wholeheartedly through the rocky transition, and the remainder of my scholarship transferred with me. PSEP staffers are dedicated to us students, seeing us through the process of applying to the program and renewing our scholarships, as well as helping us when any unforeseen situations arise. Knowing that PSEP supports me and my decision to better myself gives me security in these unstable economic times. Thank you, PSEP, and all the staff!"

"The WICHE program was one of the reasons I was able to achieve my lifetime goals; without it I would certainly not have been able to attend professional school. Upon my acceptance, the very next question was, "How in the world am I going to pay for it?" My answer was the WICHE program. Since my graduation I have continued on to my Ph.D. in translational science and now work as a research scientist, all thanks to my hard work and WICHE. My lab group is tackling some of the most difficult questions related to obesity and metabolic syndrome. Without the WICHE program, I would most certainly not be where I am today. I cannot say enough good things about this program. It not only benefited me but my family and entire community for generations to come."

"I've known for years that I wanted to go back to school to pursue my master's degree in OT in Arizona. However, I was hesitant to accrue the debt that goes along with attending a private university. WICHE's PSEP allowed me to study OT in my home state at a private school, while paying the same price I would pay to go to a public university. Having fewer loans means more freedom when I graduate, as well as less stress right now. I can focus more on my school work, and less on finances. Thank you, WICHE, for helping me achieve my academic goal!"

"WUE allowed me to attend school without racking up extreme student loans. After graduating from high school, I received a scholarship for $2,000 a year for four years, but aside from that I was on my own. My parents got divorced when I was young, and because of expenses related to that, they had no money to help me or my brothers with college. The other schools I was looking at in Oregon were too expensive, unless I was going to take out tons of student loans. Lewis-Clark State College looked like a great choice for the price, plus it was highly recommended by my aunt, who had gone there; the only problem with LCSC was the out-of-state fees. Applying through WUE meant I didn't have to pay most of those fees. Without WUE I either might not have gone to college at all or dropped out shortly after starting. WUE made it so that I can work hard in the summers and during the school year and keep my student loans to a minimum. I know of several other people who are in a similar position and wouldn't be able to go to school without WUE, one being my little brother, Jared. I hope that my story and the stories of others will affect any decisions made about WUE. "

"I graduated from Southern California College of Optometry as a WICHE PSEP student. There is no optometry program in Hawai'i, so I had to leave the islands to go to school in the mainland. The WICHE program gave me the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to venture outside of Hawai'i and attend a great school in an affordable manner. I had an amazing time on the mainland, and I truly believe that my experiences have made me a better doctor today. With rising tuition prices, every little bit of help counts. Thanks to WICHE, I managed to graduate from optometry school debt-free. I was once just a kid from a public school who had a dream of becoming a doctor, and WICHE helped make that dream came true. I am currently in private practice in my hometown, Kaimuki, and have the pleasure of providing much needed healthcare in Hawai'i. I am forever grateful to the WICHE program. I encourage legislators to continue supporting it to help other students reach their goals and to provide Hawai'i with the healthcare it needs for the future."

"WUE has been incredibly important to me for so many reasons. It not only allowed me to get away and experience a new region and a new environment, it also allowed me to do this for very little money out of pocket. It has truly been a gift, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity."

"WICHE is a wonderful program which has allowed me to financially offset the rising costs of doctoral studies. Without WICHE's reduced out-of-state tuition program, I would not be able to afford the tuition. With the continued availability of WICHE's generous support, I plan to graduate with my doctor of nursing practice in December 2012. Thank you, WICHE, for helping me achieve my higher educational goals. The continued education of nursing students will provide an exceptional team of healthcare providers ready to care for our community. I encourage legislators to continue supporting WICHE programs."

"WUE has helped me to attend the college that I wanted to, in order to get the degree I want. Many colleges in Oregon do not have paralegal studies. Lewis Clark State College did, but the out-of-state tuition is rather high. WUE cuts the tuition way down, which definitively helps. It has always been my dream to study law, so I am going for a four-year degree in paralegal, with a minor in pre-law."

"I'm from Washington. I lived in a small farming community that is seven miles from the Idaho border. I am currently enrolled at Lewis-Clark State College with plans on transfering to the University of Idaho because I can finish out my degree there. WUE has made it possible for me to attend college. It will also follow me to the U of I and allow me to receive close to in-state tuition there. I have to pay for tuition out of my pocket. Without WUE I don't believe that affording college would be possible for me."

"This exchange has allowed me to go to an out-of-state college without having to pay out-of-state tuition. It helps both my parents and me to be able to afford to send me to college and will help me to be able to graduate with a degree that will help support me."

"I am currently enrolled at the University of Utah in the College of Nursing. The program has far exceeded my expectations, and I am most grateful that the college offers an executive format where I can engage in direct dialogue with my colleagues and professors every three weeks. The program was unavailable in Wyoming when I applied, and my travel time is greatly reduced with the close approximation of the university to my home in Wyoming. Without WICHE support, I would not be able to afford this program. Thank you to all who make this program possible."

"The philosophy department at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa is essentially one of a kind. There is no other department in the United States that provides skills in both traditional Western philosophy and comparative philosophy with Asian traditions. More importantly, there is no other school where this level of philosophy is offered alongside high-level language studies. I wanted to study classical Chinese philosophy in a place where I could learn the classical language of China. To be able to learn philosophy from faculty who were internationally recognized for their translations and philosophical contributions in Asian and comparative philosophy is important to my long-term goals of teaching and publishing in this field. Hawai'i is one of the most expensive places to live in the world, and there is no way I would have been able to justify a move to the island without the promise of the reduced tuition through the WRGP."

"I am currently at Pacific University College of Optometry, enrolled as a WICHE PSEP student. My home state of North Dakota does not have an optometry school, and not having the added expense of being an out-of-state student has made graduate school an affordable option. Without the assistance of PSEP, graduate school might not have been an option for me, at least not right out of undergraduate school. My student loan debt will not be as substantial when I leave graduate school. This in turn will make it much easier for me to buy into a practice or even open my own practice when I return to North Dakota. Thank you for allowing me to become knowledgable in a field that I am passionate about and to come back and serve the great people of North Dakota."

"I am passionate about nursing. For years I have considered returning to school in order to advance my scope of practice, provide competent holistic care, and promote wellness and disease prevention in underserved communities. WRGP has supported my dreams and goals, making an excellent education affordable. Without WICHE support my loans and interests would have been over double what they are now. There are huge health disparities throughout the U.S. in rural and underserved communities. I am excited to use my degree after graduation to improve health and health outcomes in these populations."

"Without receiving support through WUE, there is no way that I would ever have been able to attend a university. With the help of this program, I will be able to obtain my goal of designing and testing armor."

"I got great grades in high school, and I participated in a program that allowed me to receive my associate's degree with my high school diploma. I was the first one to achieve that at my high school, so I figured getting a scholarship somewhere would be no problem. But the only scholarship I got was based on academics; it was small and only applied to one semester. WUE, on the other hand, cut my tuition in half! Without it I would have had to move back home and go to a school that did not have my preferred major. I am very thankful for WUE!"

"Out-of-state tuition for dental school is very expensive, and the cost is rising every year. I'm from Montana, which doesn't have a dental school, so I figured there was no way around an enormous debt load. Fortunately, the WICHE program helped me out, cutting my tuition almost in half, for which I am extremely grateful. I'm currently in my second year at the University of Colorado and looking forward to the day I move back to Montana to start my practice and give a little back to the state that has given me so much."

"Through the contribution of WICHE's PSEP, I have been able to make my dreams of studying dentistry at a nationally renowned institution a reality. I look forward to the opportunity to return to my home state of New Mexico to serve my community with the expertise I have gathered. I encourage our legislators to continue to support for this valuable program. Thank you, New Mexico!"

"Although I will still carry a large burden of debt when I graduate, WICHE has helped me significantly decrease the amount of money I’ve had to borrow for optometry school. This will undoubtedly help me after graduation as I begin to pay back these loans, but I have even felt the benefits of WICHE PSEP funding now, during school. It has decreased my stress knowing that I will be in a better financial situation when I start my career, and this has helped me focus more on my education and training, contributing to my success as a student."

"PSEP has been a tremendous help to me in achieving my lifelong goal of becoming an optometrist. Graduate school is hardly a minimal expense, especially if you have to pay an out-of-state tuition rate like I would have had to for optometry school, since North Dakota does not have its own. PSEP has helped me get a step ahead in life by relieving some of the financial burden I will have when I graduate from optometry school in May. That is something I will be forever thankful for, both emotionally and mentally, and of course, financially. This is a wonderful program and I hope it always continues to help fellow North Dakota students achieve their professional dreams. North Dakota needs medical professionals, and PSEP helps supply them. Saying "thank you" is an understatement! "

"I am currently studying at Pacific University College of Optometry. WICHE has made going to school much more affordable. Paying out-of-state tuition or paying to attend a private optometry school is very expensive, yet it is the only option, since North Dakota does not have an optometry school. I greatly encourage legislators to support WICHE so optometry students from ND, such as myself, will return back after graduating to provide ND residents with outstanding eye care and will have a smaller financial burden. It can be hard qualifying for loans to open up or buy out a practice when student loans are too high. I would like to thank North Dakota for giving me the opportunity to attend optometry school. I am excited to be the first person in my family to graduate with a doctoral degree and look forward to returning to ND to give my family and friends the best eye care possible!"

"I received my M.F.T. from Pepperdine University in California. Upon completion of my degree and work in the field of counseling, I knew that I wanted to further my education and work toward my Ph.D. in counseling psychology. There are a limited number of universities that offer this particular degree, and fewer still that offered funding. I also wanted to move closer to my family in Western Kansas. The University of Northern Colorado had everything that I wanted: an excellent educational facility with some of the top educators in the country, a chance to live in Colorado (a dream), and for the first time since high school, the ability to drive home in under 10 hours. Thanks to the WICHE program, I am now in my first semester of my doctoral program and could not be happier. I'm challenged by and engaged in a field that allows me to help others and am receiving an amazing education. I am so grateful for this opportunity and ask legislators to continue to offer this assistance. The opportunity you provide students is immeasurable, as is the difference will can make in the world."

"As a first-year veterinary student at Washington State University, I want to extend a huge "thank you" to those responsible for the ongoing WICHE PSEP support that I and other students like me are receiving. Without this funding the cost of my education would be double what it currently is, an increase that most likely would have prohibited me from achieving my life-long dream of becoming a veterinarian. I am truly blessed to be here now and to know that in four short years I will see my dream realized. I urge all students to take an active role in encouraging the continuation of this program so that we all can reach our goals! As the cost of education increases, as well as the disparity between this cost and expected salaries after graduation, the WICHE PSEP funding will only increase in importance for students like me."

"PSEP was very instrumental in providing the necessary financial assistance for both myself and my family throughout pharmacy school. The money was used to pay for a portion of my tuition, as well as the necessary books and membership fees for a variety of professional student pharmacy organizations. Without PSEP I would not have had the financial peace of mind to focus on my studies in pharmacy school. I am very thankful for the State of Hawaii for selecting me to be a WICHE PSEP candidate."

"I am currently studying optometry at Pacific University College of Optometry in Forest Grove, OR. Since there are no optometry schools in my home state of North Dakota, WICHE's PSEP allowed me to attend optometry school at a lower cost than I would have otherwise qualified for. I was thankful that it gave me multiple options for optometry schools that I could attend. I am greatly indebted to PSEP; without it I may not have been able to attend optometry school. Thank you for allowing me to pursure my dreams of improving the lives of others through healthcare."

"WICHE has been a major aid in helping me to obtain my dream career. I am very grateful for the help, since there was not an institution in my home state that could help me on my path. Thank you, WICHE, for providing the means to changing my future."

"I am currently studying optometry at Pacific University College of Optometry and am a WICHE PSEP student. I am a first-generation graduate student, and there is no way that my family would be able to help me pay for school; WICHE's PSEP is the only affordable option. It also frees me up enough so that I can decide to go on to do a residency or choose a specialty and not have my student debt controlling my future. I have some classmates who will have almost $250,000 in student debt from graduate school alone, and doing a residency program would be a huge financial hardship. I thank North Dakota for giving me the opportunity to have the career I want and encourage our legislators to continue support for this great program! "

"Because Montana does not have osteopathic or allopathic medical schools, PSEP allows me to attend my current institution for a reduced cost, closer to what students pay at their home institutions. I appreciate the PSEP financial assistance more than I can express in words; WICHE has allowed me to flourish in another institution, and I am helping supporting higher education in Montana. I would love to return to Montana to practice medicine in the near future."

"I was and still am honored to have received support from the WICHE program to study veterinary medicine at Washington State University. It not only provided significant financial assistance, it also gave me my choice of three of the best professional programs in the country. As a native Nevadan, it has been a real pleasure to return to the Reno/Sparks area and serve the community that gave me many wonderful opportunities during my childhood and now during my professional career. Financially and professionally, the WICHE program has set me up for success, and I expect many other recipients feel the same way. I hope Nevada's state legislators continue to support this program and the students involved for many years to come. Not only will this program make the future for young students brighter, but it will aid Nevada's continuing need for quality professionals in various fields. I am very grateful for all that the WICHE program has done for me, and I hope to return the favor by working hard for my clients, their animals, and the entire great state of Nevada. "

"Without WUE I would not be able to attend Colorado State University. WUE has been of essential assistance in my ability to afford my education. I love attending CSU and know I would not be able to do it without WUE."

"I am finishing my optometry degree at Pacific University in Oregon and received funding from PSEP. My home state of Colorado does not have an optometry school, and the PSEP funding made it possible for me to get my degree at a great school while keeping my student loans under control. Without this program my student loan debt would be overwhelming, which would significantly limit the job opportunities I could consider. Getting involved with private practice optometry (as opposed to corporate options) is an option for me largely because my monthly loan payments will be manageable. I hope to repay the favor to Colorado with a long career as a private practice doctor. By my owning a business, creating jobs, and paying taxes, Colorado will benefit for the next 30-plus years. All of this is possible because of the up-front support I received. I encourage our legislators to continue funding this program."

"In going back to school this past semester, there were concerns about how I was to pay for graduate school, being that I was considered out-of-state (due to me working in another state prior). Many people were involved with providing me assistance and guidance to make sure everything would work out. I would like to tell you that WRGP was one reason I was allowed to continue my master’s education this year. This program helped me continue my dream of getting a master's degree and allowed me to afford this education. Without programs like WRGP, many students (like myself) would not be able to afford the education needed to further their future."

"I wanted to attend a maritime academy to become a licensed ship officer, but my home state of Washington doesn’t offer such a program. WUE allowed me to attend California Maritime Academy and pay reduced tuition, taking a lot of financial stress off my parents. I’m now also a mechanical engineering major; this will be a great skill set to have and should make me very competitive in the workforce. I could not have considered investing the extra time required for this if I hadn’t received the WUE discount."

"WICHE’s PSEP was instrumental in helping me achieve my DVM at CSU. As tuition costs rise (particularly out-of state) and with a lack of response in salaries, it’s become prohibitive for many to obtain professional degrees. It’s truly because of PSEP that I’m able to pursue the career that I’ll look forward to every day! I’d like to extend my gratitude to the State of Wyoming for helping me achieve my life-long dream of working with animals and saving lives. I encourage legislators to continue support for this invaluable program that gives people the chance to make a difference!"

"Without WUE I would never have been able to support myself financially at Colorado State University, where I am currently a sophomore earning a degree in fish, wildlife, and conservation biology. CSU is recognized nationally for its wildlife biology program (my concentration). Research and stewardship of our natural world are my passions in life, and being able to attend a school with a program that so perfectly meets my needs and interests is a dream come true, not to mention a large step in the right direction. Not only does CSU provide me with education in the classroom, but I have enjoyed a variety of networking and research opportunities, both in the laboratory and in the field. None of this would have been possible without WUE. I owe my future career to you."

"I’m a student at the University of Colorado Denver’s School of Dental Medicine and have loved my education and my time spent in Colorado. WICHE’s PSEP has saved me over $80,000 in tuition! The savings is significant and will allow me to pay off my student loan debt much sooner. My family and I are so grateful for this generous gift towards my professional education, and we look forward to repaying the debt to our fellow residents of the great State of Arizona after I graduate. Thank you WICHE!"

"Attending a professional school is a huge commitment for a student: physically, mentally and financially. You are committing to a career by investing four years of your time and all your resources. And if the program of your choice is not available in your home state, that makes it even more difficult and expensive. WICHE’s PSEP gave me access to a great education and I didn’t have to worry about sacrificing the school I wanted because I couldn't afford it. It’s allowed me to get the most of my education and to fulfill my aspirations of becoming a dentist."

"WICHE is incredible. I looked into several in-state institutions for a doctorate program in nursing, and someone recommended Utah. I was immediately impressed with their program and knew that was where I wanted to be. But I would not have been able to afford out-of-state tuition. WRGP has given me the opportunity to attend a wonderful, affordable program. I am so thankful!"

"WUE has made attending my choice school possible, enabling me to attend a university that offers the programs and postgraduate opportunities I need. WUE has helped me bring my dream of becoming a large animal veterinarian one step closer. It helps me to pay for the education required to become a professional in my chosen field and do the best possible job in that field."

"PSEP saved me a lot of money. It allowed me to be in a financial position to start my own practice in 2007. This may not have been feasible if I'd had to pay out-of-state tuition."

"The reduced WRGP tuition I received made it possible for me to obtain a master's in agricultural sciences. I was able to learn information never made available to me before, in a new and different format. The program played an integral part in my personal growth and career development. I appreciated the ability to be a part of a hands-on learning experience that ultimately led me in the direction of agricultural law. Without WICHE I would not be prepared to protect the industry I love."

"Without support from WICHE, graduate school at Colorado State would have been completely out of reach. Because of WICHE I was able to attend and complete the IRM Program (M.Agr.) that allowed me to continue my education and help me gain powerful tools for the future in agriculture. Thank you, WICHE, for helping me to fulfill my career goals and objectives in the world of agriculture."

"WRGP helped immensely to make it possible for me to go to school. I had been looking for a graduate program to fit my needs, and Southern Oregon University provided it. Without WRGP I would not have been able to afford to go to an out-of-state school and would not have had the wonderful experiences I have had since moving down here. With WRGP I am so much closer to reaching my goals."

"As a Montana resident, I could have stayed in state to study wildlife biology, but the state's lack of a veterinary school would have left me with few opportunities to gain the knowledge and experience I need to become a wildlife veterinarian. I preferred going to a college that had both of these options available to me. This, of course, raised the price of a college education. With WUE my college payments are now on a level that my mother and I can afford, and I can now access coursework and professionals that will prepare me for both wildlife management and veterinary medicine."

"Living in a semi-rural area in Northern Utah, there are few options for graduate nursing education. The University of Arizona and WICHE’s WRGP have allowed me to study in my home state and do clinical rotations in the area where I hope to serve. There is no better way to assist my community than to learn from their clinical needs and put them at the forefront of my future practice. I’d like to thank WRGP and the University of Arizona for making my studies affordable. Without WRGP, I wouldn’t be able to pursue my career dreams. I look forward to giving back by serving my home community!"

"PSEP has helped me gain peace of mind as to how I’ll pay for medical school. With tuition rising over $42K per year, coupled with the high cost of living in Southern California, PSEP has significantly decreased my need for additional loans. Without it, I’d be nearly $275K in debt by the time I graduate! The Washington PSEP conditional loan is “win-win” for all involved. It makes medical education affordable, and graduates will later repay the favor to our fellow Washington residents of medically underserved areas who are appreciative of their knowledge and skills."

"I'm from Nevada, a state with only two universities, so I'd be very constricted if I wasn't able to attend an out-of state university. Attending college in Colorado has been an amazing experience, and it would not have been possible without WUE. I have a twin sister who is also studying at Colorado State University. My dad was recently diagnosed with a terminal illness that has created large medical expenses for my family. Without WUE there is no way my sister and I would be attending such a great university in Colorado."

"WUE has been an incredible blessing in my educational career. I grew up in Corvallis, Oregon. WUE, however, allowed me to pursue a college education in Colorado. I have genuinely never been happier or more successful in my life. Without WUE, I would not have had such a beneficial, life-changing collegiate experience! "

"The WUE Scholarship has helped me achieve my academic goal of moving out of state to go to college. This has meant the world to me, as I have dreamed of going out of state for years. WUE is helping me achieve my goals because it enables me to be able to be here, in beautiful Colorado, studying what I love: zoology."

"Without WUE, I wouldn't have been able to attend my #1 choice of university. I couldn't be happier with the university I chose to attend, and I'm glad WUE could make it affordable for my family. "

"I had always been intrested in leaving home for college to expand my horizons and education. The cost of an out-of-state school, however, was a harsh reality when it came to application time. WUE made it possible for me to attended Colorado State as an out-of-state student. Here, I have been able to pursue an animal science major and work towards vet school, which are both majors my home state universities did not offer. WUE is helping my family and me save money for my grad school education."

"$40,000….. imagine how much you could do with that! Over four years, my WUE scholarship will have saved me about that much in tuition! WUE took a huge load off my already “full-of-debt” mind. It allows me to spend less time worrying and more time enjoying college and studying what I love. Thank you!"

"WUE has helped me to afford a school with a good preveterinary program. I intend to apply to vet school, so I wanted to attend a college with a good undergraduate program for veterinary medicine. Colorado State not only has that, it also a multitude of programs and volunteer opportunites for prevet students not found at other universities. Without WUE's aid in paying the tuition for an out-of-state university, I would have missed many educational opportunities that have helped me on my chosen career path."

"I have dreamed of being a veterinarian since I was a little girl. WUE has helped me to be able to pay for admission at Colorado State University and allowed me the opportunity to work with professors and grad students at one of the country's most prestigious veterinary schools. If it weren't for the WUE scholarship I would not have been able to come to CSU and would not have had all the wonderful experiences I have had."

"Reduced tuition through WUE made it possible for me to attend an out-of-state school that better aligns with my professional objectives of obtaining a technical degree and pursuing a career with an engineering company. WUE’s a valuable program that keeps very good students in the West, even though they leave their home state. Without it, many students might feel inclined to study even farther away from home. These students/professionals are our region's future and their presence benefits local and regional economies well after their study is over."

"Without WUE, I would not be able to afford the career of my dreams. Thanks to WUE, I’m able to study out-of-state in the program that’s the best fit for me for my respective discipline."

"I am extremely appreciative of WUE. I wanted to attend Colorado State University to study mechanical engineering because of its great program and to be near the mountains. WUE made my undergraduate studies affordable and thanks to the savings, my dreams of continuing on to graduate school are still feasible! I’ve enjoyed every minute of college and I thank WICHE for making this possible. I hope WUE will continue for a long time, so that more students can realize their dreams and attend the university of their choice."

"WUE’s helping me to achieve my academic goals and follow my life-long dreams. Without it, I would not have been able to major in nutrition and have access to all of the wonderful resources this community gives its students. I look forward to taking my knowledge back to my home state when I graduate, in gratitude of all that WUE has given me."

"WUE allowed me to go out-of-state for college and obtain a great education in a new environment. "

"If it hadn't been for receiving the WUE tuition discount, I wouldn't have been able to attend college in Colorado because out-of-state tuition is so high. I'm so grateful to have received this scholarship!"

"The WUE program has given me the scholastic freedom to pursue my track and field career instead of having to hold down a job to pay for college while I’m studying. WUE’s been instrumental not only for my academic and athletic success, but for my personal growth into independent adulthood as well."

"WUE made out-of-state tuition at CSU affordable. There’s no way I’d be here without it. Thank you!"

"If it weren't for WUE, I would not have been able to go to CSU. Out-of-state study has opened many doors for me, and I’ve had so many different experiences that I just wouldn’t have had otherwise. Thank you!"

"WUE tuition made out-of-state study possible; leaving my home town was something I felt I needed to do in order to “find myself”. I am so thankful to WICHE’s WUE program for allowing me to go to school here in Colorado. I wouldn't have been able to afford it any other way."

"I’d wanted to go to college in Colorado for quite some time, and WUE made it financially possible. I am able to meet new people and experience living in a new place. Thank you!"

"WUE has allowed me to enroll in an institution that I would otherwise not have been able to attend. With some of the financial burden lifted, I can focus my attention on studying and the goals ahead of me. Without WUE, I wouldn’t have had the chance to experience of the State of Colorado and benefit from the educational programs and research that is abundant here. I’m extremely appreciative of the opportunities WUE has provided that will help me prepare for medical school in the future."

"The skills that one learns by moving to a new state and meeting new people cannot be learned in a classroom. Many students like me cannot afford out-of-state tuition, but thanks to WUE, I’m able to afford nonresident tuition and study restaurant and resort management, which was not offered by institutions in my home state. I value my education that I’ve received here, and I hope that WUE will continue to help students gain access to the education and opportunities that they need and deserve."

"Without WUE, I would not have been able to attend Colorado State University as an Equine Science major; I’m thankful for this, as the program provides outstanding preparation for vet school. WUE also makes it affordable for students move out of their home state “comfort zone” and gain more diverse perspectives. WUE’s opened many opportunities for me, and is playing a critical role in shaping my professional future."

"WUE’s made it much more affordable for me to attend CSU for my undergraduate degree in microbiology. My financial burden is lighter now, which will ultimately help me to be able to afford vet school in the future."

"Ever since I was a little girl I’ve wanted to study veterinary medicine. As I grew older, my passion for it only grew, but so did my awareness of how much it was going to cost, especially because Arizona does not have a veterinary program. Without WUE, my family could never afford for me to study out-of-state. WUE has allowed me to start my education at the same institution where I plan to finish it. I can't possibly describe how thankful I am for the opportunity to study here. Thank you!!"

"Thanks to WICHE’s WUE, I’ve been able to study at an institution where I can learn everything I need to in order to achieve my goals. I had program options in my home state, but it was important to me to “get out and see the world,” away from home. WUE allowed me to attend the university I wanted, with the program I needed--at an affordable price! I’ve had an exceptional collegiate experience thus far and now I am researching graduate schools. Thank you!"

"Without WUE, I wouldn't have been able to go to school out of state. While I miss home, putting myself into new situations has been the most valuable experience of my life. I've developed new perspectives, made great new friends, and have grown personally. I can't thank WICHE enough for this opportunity, and would encourage other prospective students to apply and try something new."

"I was born and raised in Seattle and wanted to be immersed in a completely new environment where I would also receive a world-class education. WUE made my dream come true. I am currently an undergrad at CSU in the Biomedical Science program. I’ve had access to incredible resources and amazing faculty every semester; CSU was the perfect fit for me! Without WUE, it would not have been possible. Thank you WICHE!"

"Colorado State University not only has an excellent Nutrition and Food Science program, but it was the only college I visited that I truly fell in love with. Without WUE, paying nonresident tuition would have been near impossible, and I wouldn’t have been able to attend CSU. Thanks to reduced tuition through WUE, I am getting an excellent education at a university I love."

"Without WUE, I wouldn’t have been able to study out of state. Although my parents make good money, they have yet to send my younger sister and brother through college, a factor that FAFSA and financial aid formulas do not often recognize. WUE allowed me to live my dream of studying in Colorado without racking up huge amounts of debt. WUE has been a tremendous help financially. Thank you!"

"I had my heart set on Western Washington University all of my senior year and couldn't picture myself anywhere else. WWU has a well-known College of Education, and I knew that their program would help me in my teaching career. WUE opened a very special door for me, and I am forever grateful!"

"The WUE tuition discount allowed me to consider studio art programs that were the best fit for me in regards to curriculum and location, and not just on the basis of their cost. The WUE program made my top choice affordable: I am now studying art in beautiful Bellingham…just the place I want to be! I am ever grateful for this opportunity. Thank you WICHE and Western Washington University! "

"I had to work almost full-time in a retail pharmacy to afford my undergraduate education and was left with little time to study or perform the volunteer activities I’d previously enjoyed. Thanks to WICHE’s PSEP, I was able to complete professional pharmacy school while keeping my debt low, and working less so I could tutor classmates and volunteer at health fairs and at a local homeless shelter clinic. I’m extremely grateful for PSEP. I’m now completing a residency in pharmacotherapy and will return to Nevada to serve as a hospital pharmacist and educator. "

"Words aren’t enough to express my appreciation to the State of Wyoming and WICHE! I grew up on a ranch in Wyoming and have always wanted to live and work in a rural community. Thanks to PSEP, I was able to pursue my dream of becoming a veterinarian and I will be able to return to Wyoming. Without PSEP, students like me could not afford to return to their rural communities. Rather, we’d be forced to take employment in larger cities where earnings are higher, so that we could pay off our student debt. PSEP is a lifesaver for students who don’t have professional schools in their home state."

"Knowing from a young age I would be pursuing a career in medicine, WICHE’s PSEP was always a critical piece of the application puzzle. Without WICHE preference, out-of-state applicants have little chance of getting admitted into most of the medical schools around the country. I was able to mark "WICHE certified" on my applications and it helped me secure a position at the University of North Dakota. I am now pursuing a general surgery residency at a Level 1 trauma center. WICHE plays a vital role in educating physicians who will return to Montana and support the future of the profession."

"Since there is no physical therapy program in my home state of Wyoming, WICHE's PSEP program was the only option for me that didn't involve crippling amounts of student loans. Thanks to WICHE PSEP’s extensive network of cooperating programs, I was able to choose from several excellent but otherwise unaffordable schools. Soon I’ll be graduating and will go back to Wyoming to practice. Thanks to WICHE, I am the first member of my family to graduate from college."

"I’m currently studying veterinary medicine at Washington State University. WICHE’s PSEP has not only helped make my education affordable, but it will give me the opportunity to go back to my home state of Montana to practice mixed animal medicine and run the family ranch with my husband. Veterinary studies are stressful in and of themselves, but it’s such a relief to know that I’ll have a manageable debt load to pay off when I graduate. That would not be the case without the WICHE program."

"WICHE’s WRGP has allowed me to work toward my master's degree at an out-of-state college while paying in-state tuition. It has reduced my tuition costs by half. Southern Oregon University’s Mental Health Counseling program was approved for WRGP just before I enrolled. Thanks to WRGP and SOU’s participation, I won’t have massive debt awaiting me upon graduation. WRGP is great for students; it opens up financially-viable options for higher education beyond the borders of our home states."

"My home state of Arizona does not have a veterinary school so WICHE’s Professional Student Exchange Program has made the difference between needing only $100K in financial aid (since I pay in-state tuition) as opposed to the $200K I would have needed to pay out-of-state tuition. It’s a huge relief to know I will be $100K less in debt when I graduate! I am very grateful for WICHE’s PSEP and the generosity of the State of Arizona."

"I always wanted to go to school in Washington, but when I looked into tuition costs, I was troubled and afraid I wouldn’t be able to afford it. Without a reduced tuition WUE award, I would have had to stay in Alaska and major in a subject that I was not passionate about. Fortunately, I was awarded WUE tuition at Central Washington University and it’s the perfect school for me. WICHE’s WUE program has helped make my dreams of becoming an art teacher a reality!"

"There is no Occupational Therapy program in Montana so I was concerned about the expense of out-of-state and private tuition. Fortunately, WICHE’s PSEP gave me access to a strong network of cooperating schools at an affordable price. I’m now attending Pacific University and discovering my dream career. I am so grateful for WICHE and Montana’s financial support. Thank you!"

"WICHE's played an important role in my education. I first used WUE to attend college in Alaska while I was a resident of Washington. I earned my bachelor's degree and met my husband there; he was also a WUE student! Now, I’m enrolled through WRGP to attend PSU while I reside in Montana. I have a blind son and want to teach the visually-impaired. Thanks to WRGP, I’ll be a better educator for my son and children like him. WICHE’s student exchange programs have been invaluable to me and my family, and I hope to see them active for many years. Perhaps my children will use them in the future!"

"Without the reduced tuition I get through WUE, I'd probably end up with lower grades because of the extra work hours I'd need to do in order to pay for tuition. Thanks to WUE, my education is affordable and I can focus on my studies! "

"After a decade working as a writer and editor, I decided to return to school to study communication research and fulfill my dream of earning a graduate degree. WICHE’s WRGP allowed me to cast my net wider and search for affordable journalism graduate programs outside of my home state of Washington. Now, I am happily working on a master's degree in Public Communication & Technology at Colorado State University, enrolled through WRGP. Thank you!"

"I’m studying Musical Theatre at Central Washington University. The theatre and performing have been my life since I was very small. When I visited CWU, I fell in love with the campus and Ellensburg; I didn't want to go anywhere else. I had my back-up plans, but luckily I didn't have to use them. My parents wouldn’t have been able to afford CWU without WUE, as my sister is also enrolled in a private college. Thanks to WUE, I am following my dreams and will get the chance to go to Europe for a month as part of my studies. Thank you!"

"I’ll be the first member of my family to receive a college degree. Without the reduced tuition available through WUE, it would have cost over $100K to attend college. I have learned so much in my first semester at Central Washington University. I hold tremendous gratitude for the WUE program. WUE is a worthy investment; it's allowed me to improve my life, and I feel called to give back to the community in honor of the assistance extended to me. Thank you!"

"I am so grateful to have received help from WICHE’s PSEP so that I could attend medical school at the University of Arizona - Phoenix to become a physician. I’m a fourth-year student, and I will soon enter a residency program in internal medicine, likely to be followed by a fellowship in oncology. The road is a long one, but after my fellowship I look forward to returning to Montana and caring for patients.”"

"I'm enrolled at California Maritime Academy as a Hawaii resident. Without WUE, I'd have to delay my college aspirations for one year to gain in-state residency. Out-of-state tuition rates are astronomical and I’m grateful to have received reduced tuition through WUE. Getting a college education is just too important to put on hold, and WUE made it affordable now!"

"I’d always dreamed of attending college out of state. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone, explore, and redefine myself. When I came across Western Washington University, I knew it was the perfect place for me. I applied and was accepted, but was extremely nervous about how I would afford tuition, until I was offered WUE. It allowed me to pursue my education in a setting where I am surrounded by positive people, invigorating academics, and a breath-taking natural environment. I now work in admissions at WWU and see firsthand how WUE allows students like me the opportunity to dream big!"

"WICHE’s PSEP has offered me a means to pursue my dream career in veterinary medicine. The State of New Mexico does not have its own veterinary school, but PSEP makes veterinary education affordable and feasible! I strongly encourage students to apply for WICHE’s PSEP. And a heartfelt thankyou to the residents of the State of New Mexico and our legislators for their continued support of this key program!"

"Without WICHE, I could not attend graduate school. As an adult student and parent, I have no flexibility in geography, and options for master’s degrees are few in northern Idaho. Washington State University Spokane is conveniently located and offers a robust MHPA program. When I was laid off recently, I knew pursuing a master’s was the best option for me and my family, but I could not afford out-of-state tuition. Thanks to WICHE’s WRGP, I now have an exciting career ahead of me. I am very grateful for this opportunity! "

"WRGP enabled me to participate in one of the only graduate level Rehabilitation Counseling programs in the country that really engages students with Deaf and Hard of Hearing (HOH) issues. For this I feel very fortunate; it has helped me grow as a deaf individual both inside and outside of the classroom. Students who are themselves deaf/HOH or have an interest in working with this population will greatly benefit from similar opportunities—such unique resources are scarce in some areas of the country."

"WICHE’s PSEP is essential for those of us that want to enter in the veterinary profession but don't have the financial means to pay four years of nonresident tuition. Coming from rural Montana, PSEP gave me the chance to fulfill my dream of a career in veterinary medicine. Even more importantly, I’ll have the option of opening a rural practice, since I will have a lower student debt load when I graduate, and for that I'm thankful! "

"When I learned I was accepted at Central Washington University, I was overwhelmed at the thought of nonresident graduate tuition. I was ecstatic to learn that I could enroll through WICHE's WRGP and pay resident tuition. I'm thrilled to be a part of CWU's Primate Behavior program that prepares future primatologists for scientific studies in captive or fieldwork settings. I spent last summer in Indonesia conducting research on gibbon vocalizations and pair-bonding behaviors. Thanks to WICHE, I can enjoy my graduate studies without having to stress over alarming nonresident tuition costs."

"The WUE program has significantly helped me with my goal of becoming a teacher and in continuing my education. I am now able to go to my school of choice without the stress of figuring out how to pay for the out-of-state tuition. WUE has given me the opportunity to experience living and learning in a different state and in a place where I feel I can learn the most. I really appreciate the help WUE has given me -- without it, I could not afford such an experience. Thank you very much! "

"The cost of veterinary school is substantial for anyone, but for students from humble backgrounds, especially those that want to return to their home states and towns, the high cost can be a deal-breaker. I would have had to seriously reconsider my dream of becoming a veterinarian without WICHE PSEP support. And, the preferential admission that WICHE students receive substantially increases our odds of getting accepted into vet school as out-of-state residents. I am truly grateful for the support I've received and hope that Montana will continue to fund this vital program."

"I cannot express enough gratitude for the WICHE Professional Student Exchange Program. My home state of Wyoming did not offer a professional degree in veterinary medicine. With PSEP support, I was able to choose from the best schools in the nation and pay in-state tuition. I am able to pursue my dream of small animal private practice, and do so without an unrealistic amount of student debt. Thank you Wyoming and WICHE for your support!"

"The WUE program was the best thing that has happened to me! It opened doors to opportunities to go away for college outside of my home state of Hawaii. I never thought I’d be able to study out-of-state, due to my financial situation. WUE gave me opportunity to grow as a teen into a competent and independent adult with a college degree. WUE is a life-changer for anyone who wants to go away for college and grow as a person."

"I am currently enrolled in the Occupational Therapy program at Pacific University in Oregon. My home state does not have such a program. I wouldn’t be able to afford the schooling costs without the support of WICHE’s PSEP; it reduced my student loan debt significantly. In addition, I am able to focus on my studies rather than holding a job to support myself. I am looking forward to returning to Hawaii after graduation, so that I can give back to the community."

"I am so appreciative of my chance to enroll through WICHE’s PSEP to achieve my degree in veterinary medicine. The program played a crucial role in making my dream of becoming a veterinarian possible; it allows me to focus on my education instead of the high financial costs. Continued support of PSEP will allow many talented students to pursue their career goals and produce dedicated professionals in critical fields that Wyoming and the other WICHE states need. Thank you to WICHE and Wyoming for giving me this opportunity!"

"The University of Utah’s College of Social Work has access to resources not available in my home state of Hawaii. Thanks to WICHE’s WRGP, I can attend the school of my choice and earn an advanced degree in my field with an emphasis that is not currently available in my home state."

"I’ve always wanted to be a veterinarian, and growing up on a small ranch in Wyoming reinforced my aspirations. But I didn't have access to a veterinary school in Wyoming, so I would be paying out-of-state tuition at any institution I attended. Then I learned about PSEP, where I would pay in-state-tuition thanks to the support of my home state. Instead of facing tremendous student debt, I can now focus on my schooling without the looming dread of hundreds of thousands of dollars in loans to pay back! Thank you Wyoming, for helping me pursue my dream of becoming a large animal veterinarian!"

"I am so thankful for the Western Regional Graduate Program that allows me to pay in-state tuition as an Idaho resident while attending graduate school at USU. It has made a significant difference in my life and has enabled me to focus on learning and developing skills that will increase my competitiveness in the job market, rather than worrying about how to pay for tuition. I really appreciate the assistance and will be forever grateful!"

"I will soon graduate from the Master's of Science in Human Resources program at Utah State University. WICHE's Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) has allowed me to enroll in this excellent program; without it, I would not have been able to leave Oregon and attend USU because of financial restrictions. I am thankful that Oregon and Utah participate in WRGP, as it has allowed me to further my knowledge and education. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity and experience!"

"As an Idaho resident, it was such a relief when I learned I was awarded reduced WRGP tuition for my master's studies Utah State University. WRGP has been a blessing; it allows me to focus on my studies and not worry about taking an additional job to supplement my income, since I have a wife and two children at home. And, it will keep my future student loan payments manageable, which will help me to continue my professional life. Thanks WRGP!"

"After 10 years of professional experience as an educator, I decided to return to academia for a master's in human resource management. My home state of Oregon only offered one such program in a private university, so the expense was prohibitive. Through WRGP, I was able to pursue my chosen degree in a partner state and I am thrilled with the quality of the program. WRGP truly made my higher education possible and I couldn't have done it otherwise. Thanks!"

"I had my heart set on studying something to do with the environment, but neither of my home state of Nevada’s two universities offered programs that fit my interests. WUE allows me to pursue my education out of state…. I’m enrolled in one of the top undergrad environmental journalism programs in the country!”"

"I’m an Arizona resident and chose to enroll at New Mexico State University. NMSU was the ideal university for me because their animal science degree program best fits my goals. Since I was able to enroll through WICHE’s Western Undergraduate Exchange, it was actually more affordable to go to school there. I am so appreciative of WUE—now I can pursue my dream career in the equine industry. Thank you!"

"It’s easy to become overwhelmed by academic responsibilities and the staggering debt that is accrued in four years while preparing for a career in medicine. WICHE has been a life-saver, making private tuition as affordable as a public program. The support has allowed me to focus more on succeeding in my profession instead of dwelling on financial hardship. The assistance has allowed me to become the best physician I can be, which will ultimately benefit my future patients--the residents of Arizona. Thank you, WICHE!"

"The State of Arizona offers a public program in allopathic medicine, and two private programs in osteopathic medicine. For an Arizona resident, allopathic medicine is the most affordable option. However, the osteopathic medical approach aligns better with my personal medical philosophy. Thanks to WICHE support, financial considerations did not dictate my choice. Now I can pursue my dream of serving my fellow Arizona residents as an osteopathic physician."

"I am very grateful to the State of Utah for allowing me to study veterinary medicine through the WICHE program. After graduation, I returned to Utah and have been practicing here for five years.Given the large ratio of debt to income for a veterinarian, my financial burden would have been insurmountable without WICHE support. I hope Utah will continue to give hard-working students the chance to access the best quality education available through the WICHE program."

"Without WICHE I would never have been able to fulfill my lifelong dream of being a veterinarian. Upon graduation, I plan to return to my home state of Montana to practice veterinary medicine. Without WICHE support, this would not be feasible. I am so thankful that I had WICHE as an option, and I hope that others from my Montana with similar dreams will also benefit from this program! "

"My counselor for my recent student exit interview informed me that the average optometry graduate owes around $130,000 in student loans! As a WICHE recipient, I can say that the support absolutely makes a difference. The WICHE PSEP support I receive from the State of Wyoming reduced my debt load and has allowed me the opportunity to pursue a one-year residency program in Oklahoma. With the advanced skills I’m learning, I’ll be qualified to treat more complex ocular conditions when I establish my practice in a rural area. "

"My 'Aunt WICHE' from Nevada has made going to optometry school possible. Without her help, I'd be on a restricted diet of Top Ramen! My peers who don't receive assistance from family (like my Aunt WICHE) must go on food stamps to offset their meager loans. Thanks to WICHE's PSEP, I can pay my rent and buy required optometric equipment. I am proud to be a Nevadan: my state government supports me and values my future profession! I believe I'll be a valuable part of Nevada's healthcare system and I look forward to serving my state. "