Frequently Asked Questions

Future Woodring Scholars are selected from Western applicants who have demonstrated academic success, an interest in becoming a teacher or human services professional, a strong background in multiculturalism or an expressed interest in working with diverse student populations, formal or informal experience working with youth, and a desire to be in a leadership profession. The selection process for this program is competitive, typically admitting cohorts of 20-30 students. 

Future Woodring Scholars are required* to take the designated course for each quarter during their first year at Western. These courses begin preparing them to work with communities and families in a range of education and human services settings. Courses that all FWS take are taught by the most sought-after faculty on campus AND meet university general education requirements.

Scholars are encouraged to continue taking courses their second year to continue consideration for cohort-related scholarships. 

*exemptions may be applied on a case-by-case basis

In addition to required coursework, Future Woodring Scholars are paired with current Woodring students; typically these students are former Future Woodring Scholars themselves who are well versed in all things Woodring. Scholars are also encouraged to attend a variety of social and academic events throughout the year to build community and provide assistance with a variety of the challenges they might be facing in their first year of college. 

Although scholars are required to participate in the course(s) each quarter, exemptions can be made. Students can request to opt out after speaking with the Program Coordinator about their academic goals.  

Yes! Students selected for the FWS program are awarded a one-time scholarship for their demonstrated commitment to teacher education/human services exploration. The following funding resources are also available as requested: 

• Testing Vouchers
  • Testing vouchers for the West-B, West-E, and NES
  • Please contact Daisy Padilla for more information.  
• Travel Funding
  • Additional funds to reimburse significant (i.e. outside of Bellingham) travel to and from campus
  • Please contact Daisy Padilla for more information.  

Students are also encouraged to apply for continuing student scholarships through Woodring College and Western Scholarship Center once they begin their studies as full-time Western students.