Mission Statement: student transitions
All new students beginning their academic journey at WMU are very important to the Office of Student Transitions (OST). Members of the OST team are committed to supporting all first-time undergraduate students, which includes first years, transfers and contemporary students. Because attending college is a major life event, filled with expectations and questions, the OST department is designed to assist and support students in developing social networks, understanding the expectations of academic rigor, and learning about the vast opportunities and resources at WMU.
The intention of OST is to acclimate incoming undergraduate students to Western Michigan University’s collegiate culture, and therefore, strives to:
- Assist in the development of a strong academic foundation culminating with graduation from WMU
- Provide tools (support and assistance) necessary for students to achieve personal and academic success during matriculation at WMU and beyond
- Foster social connections and relationships with peers, faculty and staff
- Help students find balance between their academic and personal lives
- Create a diverse and inclusive community that celebrates the uniqueness of all students
- Promote the value and importance of service learning, respect and civility
Attending college should absolutely be one of the best times in your life. Becoming immersed in the collegiate experience has the potential to change your personal and career trajectory for life; so, enjoy the experience; elevate your involvement and thinking; and become an engaged Bronco. The OST staff looks forward to meeting you and supporting you during your time at WMU.
The Office of Student Transitions consists of five units:
- New Student Orientation
- Fall Welcome
- First-Year Seminar
- Transfer Student Services
- Foundation Scholars
These five units work together to help you achieve your goals. Your journey to success begins with WMU and the Office of Student Transitions! Are you ready?
University Sexual Assault and Misconduct Policy
Western Michigan University encourages all members of our community to participate in the process of creating a safe, welcoming and respectful environment on campus. With the Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment and Violence, Intimate Partner Violence, and Stalking Policy and Procedures, we affirm the commitment of the university and our community to the values of transparency and timely communication, and accountable and responsible behavior within an ethical, compassionate, diverse and respectful environment.
The Faculty Senate Executive Board approved the suggested syllabus statement regarding Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment and Violence, Intimate Partner Violence, and Stalking Policy and Procedures. November 2015
"Students and instructors are responsible for making themselves aware of and abiding by the “Western Michigan University Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment and Violence, Intimate Partner Violence, and Stalking Policy and Procedures” related to prohibited sexual misconduct under Title IX, the Clery Act and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Under this Policy, Responsible Employees, (including instructors) are required to report claims of sexual misconduct to the Title IX Coordinator or designee (located in the Office of Institutional Equity). For more information, see www.wmich.edu/sexualmisconduct."