Alpha Program

Graduation celebration photo, spring 2025 — The Alpha Program

The mission of the Alpha Program is to help first-year Alpha students develop skills, behaviors and attitudes that lead to college success in their first year of college.

Explore options

Make an appointment Find information for parents and family Discover benefits for students Locate campus events

Serving first-year students

The Alpha Program is designed to guide first-year students in developing skills, behaviors and attitudes that lead to college success. The Office of Admissions admits students to the Alpha Program who are able to thrive with the opportunity and support that the program provides. Upon enrolling at Western, first-year Alpha students become part of a community of fellow Alpha students, upper-class Alpha student mentors and supportive faculty and staff.

More about our services

Virtual Alpha Pre-Orientation Sessions

Our Virtual Alpha Pre-Orientation Sessions will give you a clear understanding of what Alpha is, what the expectations are, and the benefits of being an Alpha Scholar. You will learn how the program supports your academic goals, what it means to be part of this community, and how to make the most of your first year at WMU.

We will also share important information that will help you get prepared for orientation and registration, so you feel confident and ready for your next steps.

Join us for one of the following sessions:

Tuesday, May 5, 2026 • 11 a.m. to Noon Tuesday, May 12, 2026 • 11 a.m. to Noon Wednesday, May 13, 2026 • 4 to 5 p.m.

A Message to Future Alpha Scholars

Future scholars,

I want you to know how special it is to be invited into Alpha. This is a community that sees your potential and is excited to help you reach your academic goals with confidence and support. You were selected because we believe you have everything it takes to succeed at WMU, and we are honored to walk with you as you begin this new chapter.

Alpha is a place where you will grow, learn, and discover what you are capable of. You will have mentors who cheer for you, peers who study with you, and a team that is committed to helping you stay focused and strong. You will learn how to navigate campus, use your resources, and build the habits that lead to real academic success.

A big part of reaching your goals is resilience. College will stretch you at times, but you will not face those moments alone. Alpha will help you stay grounded, stay encouraged, and stay moving forward. Every challenge you overcome becomes part of your story, and we will be right there celebrating your progress.

Alpha sets a new standard by surrounding you with people who believe in your success and are ready to help you reach your goals. You were selected because you have something special, and we are honored to support your journey.

Our team is excited to meet you, welcome you, and cheer for you as you grow into the scholar you are meant to be. You were chosen for a reason, and we cannot wait to see all that you will accomplish. This is your moment, and Alpha is ready for you.

You belong here.

Carmen Bell, M.M.
Program Manager, Academic Support Programs

FAQs

What is Alpha and why was I selected?

Alpha is a support community for first year students who show strong potential and a commitment to their academic goals. You were selected because we believe in your success and want to support your journey from the very beginning.

What will I get out of being an Alpha Scholar?

You will gain access to mentors, academic support, community events, and resources that help you stay focused, confident, and prepared. Alpha gives you a strong start and a team that cares about your progress.

What are the expectations for Alpha Scholars?

We ask you to stay engaged, communicate with your mentors, attend key sessions, and take ownership of your academic goals. Alpha is here to support you, and your effort helps you get the most out of the program.

Is my admittance to WMU conditional?

No. Your admission to WMU is not conditional because of your participation in Alpha. You are fully admitted, and Alpha is here to support your success as you begin your first year.

If I cannot declare my major now, will I be behind in my program?

Not at all. Many students start at WMU without declaring a major. As an Alpha Scholar, you are still able to take the same classes you would take if you declared your major now. If you already know the degree you want to pursue, we will help you stay on track so you do not fall behind. If you are still exploring, you will have the space to learn about different majors, and the courses you take will still count toward your degree. You will not be behind.

Do I have to attend a Virtual Pre-Orientation Session?

We strongly encourage it. These sessions give you a clear understanding of the program, the expectations, and the benefits. They also help you prepare for orientation and registration so you feel ready for your next steps.

What if I cannot attend one of the listed sessions?

You can reach out to our team, and we will make sure you get the information you need. We want you to feel supported and prepared.

Will I meet the Alpha team before the fall semester?

Yes. The Virtual Pre-Orientation Sessions are your first chance to meet us, ask questions, and get connected. Our team is excited to meet you and welcome you into the community.

How will Alpha help me with my academic goals?

You will learn how to use campus resources, build strong study habits, stay organized, and stay encouraged throughout the year. Alpha gives you tools and people who want to see you succeed.

Staff Bios

Carmen L. Bell, M.M.

Carmen is a passionate higher education administrator, pedagogist, and visionary leader with a strategic focus on student success and inclusive program design. She brings over a decade of experience in developing and implementing educational initiatives across higher education and nonprofit sectors.

In her role at Merze Tate College, Bell leads academic support programs that advance strategic advising, inclusive curriculum development, and community engagement. Her approach centers identity-driven education and the creation of meaningful, student-centered learning experiences.

Bell’s professional background includes roles in enrollment services, academic advising, and instructing collegiate music courses with a focus on vocal performance and creative expression.

She holds a Master of Music from Eastern Michigan University and a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Western Michigan University.

Jonathan Davis

Jonathan Davis serves as the Academic Support Specialist for the ALPHA Program, where he is dedicated to empowering students as they navigate their own unique paths to success. A proud TRIO and ALPHA alumnus and a first-generation college graduate, Jonathan understands firsthand the transformative impact of student support programs. He holds a bachelor’s degree from WMU and brings both personal experience and professional commitment to his work.

Guided by the belief that “success isn’t linear—keep moving forward,” Jonathan strives to meet students where they are and help them grow from there. His student-centered approach focuses on building genuine connections, offering guidance, and providing resources that help students define and reach their own version of success.

Whether he’s mentoring first-generation college students, coordinating academic services, or collaborating with campus partners, Jonathan is driven by the mission to open doors for others just as they were opened for him. He is passionate about fostering a supportive, inclusive environment where every student has the tools and encouragement to keep moving forward.

Jayla West

Jayla graduated from Michigan State University in 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in Communicative Sciences and Disorders and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences at WMU. A proud first-generation college student, Jayla is deeply committed to supporting others—especially high school students—through the transition to college life.

In addition to her academic and professional interests, Jayla is passionate about staying active. She was a four-year varsity swimmer in high school and swam on and off during college as well. In her free time, she enjoys going for walks, playing tennis when her schedule allows, and exploring new ways to stay physically active and connected to nature.

Borsha Podder

Borsha Podder is a Computer Science major with a Mathematics minor. As an Alpha Mentor, Borsha is here to support you in your academic journey, help you find your rhythm in college life, and share tips that have helped them thrive at WMU. When Borsha is not coding or solving math problems, they are usually with my cat—who, fun fact, is always on high alert as if she's about to hunt a bird. Borsha is excited to get to know each of you and help you build confidence and community this semester!

Martin Chong

Martin Chong is from Malaysia and is currently a junior studying Data Science at WMU. Her is a big fan of movies, especially biopics or historical settings such as WWII. Whenever he isn't watching movies, he enjoys playing chess or card games with his friends.

Sanaah Rodgers

Sanaah Rodgers is from Detroit, Michigan and is majoring in Biomedical Sciences. She considers herself very outgoing and loves to have fun and connect with others. Her greatest passion is dancing because it helps her express her emotions and creativity in movement.

Her favorite quote is from Denzel Washington, "You will fail at some point in your left, you will embarrass yourself, you will suck at something....Keep striving, never give up, fall down seven times, get up eight times. Never confuse movement for progress. You might be working hard, but how much progress are you making? Without commitment you'll never start, and without consistency you'll never finish." This quote helps Sanaah remember to stay committed and consistent in everything I do, no matter how challenging the journey gets.