Smart Start Program

Smart Start Participation Criteria

The Smart Start program uses a high-touch model of tracking, communication, and support for student participants. In order for students to participate in the Smart Start Program, students must meet all “seven” of the following criteria listed below:

• You must be first, in your immediate family, to attend and graduate from a four-year university.
• You must be eligible to receive the federal Pell Grant award, or demonstrate a financial hardship.
• You must demonstrate at least moderate to high need for academic support during the admission/matriculation process.
• You must submit a completed Smart Start Participation Agreement by the 10^thday of Classes in the Fall.
• You must successfully complete a Smart Start Workshop 101 session by the 10^th day of classes in the Fall.
• You must receive a satisfactory rating for meeting (SSP) Core Values Expectations at the end of the Fall semester.
• You must maintain good standing with the Washington State University, Center for Community Standards.

NOTE: In the event a student does not meet “all” criteria, a student may be nominated by both a WSU academic advisor and student affairs representative, and will be considered based upon space availability. In addition, consideration will be made for those students demonstrating extreme academic hardship, and a need for intervention, remediation, and/or academic enrichment. Students may be asked to submit a personal statement, if further clarification is needed. Contact the Smart Start Program Coordinator, Stephen Bischoff, Ph.D. for more information at bischoff@wsu.edu.