The Association of American Colleges and Universities’ Greater Expectations Consortium for Quality Education developed a set of definitions for programs in the undergraduate experience that add value to the college experience. Wayland is excelling in many of these areas: First-year experiences: Wayland’s Koinonia freshman orientation program immerses students in college life from the first moment on campus. Small groups meet with upperclassmen to discuss common issues of the transition process and to compete in crazy games and team-building activities. Events are planned to introduce organizations and begin the bonding process. The required Foundations of University Life course for firsttime students covers vital study skills and practical goals for success in life’s endeavors, further easing the freshman transition. The Academic Achievement program offers courses to help students who may be lacking in some basic math, reading or writing skills prepare for college-level coursework. Undergraduate research and creative projects: The School of Mathemtics and Sciences offers various options for students to participate in original research projects with guidance from experienced faculty. In the past few years, this research has resulted in Wayland’s first patent for a water purification system. Now, the system is being studied for possible missions applications worldwide with the help of students in other disciplines. Service learning: The Degree of Difference Day offers students an exposure to a massive community service effort in Plainview, working alongside faculty and staff to serve city organizations and churches. Student athletes regularly participate in service projects in town, including reading with first graders at Read First while others provide mentorship and friendship to lcoal high school students through the Apostolos ministry group. Study abroad: Wayland offers regular opportunities for students to visit other nations and earn college credit on the short term. In addition, a partnership with www.bestsemester.com provides students with additional options for long-term study overseas. Students with an eye toward ministry or missions have many choices through the Wayland Missions Center to spend a few weeks or a few months on mission fields around the globe. Writing in the disciplines: Wayland’s Writing Center provides guidance to students on completing research papers and writing assignments across all academic disciplines. The university has made a deliberate effort to focus on improving writing skills for students from all major fields and faculty are incorporating writing into all disciplines to enhance those skills. We think you’ll agree that Wayland Baptist University is providing an education beyond just books, lectures and exams. It’s an education that will benefit students far beyond their time here. And it’s one you’ll value for their future. of a Wayland education value the Office of Admissions 1900 West 7th St. CMB 712 Plainview, Texas 79072 what do you value for your child’s higher education? Dear Parents, At Wayland Baptist University, we know that in these challenging economic times, sending your students away to college becomes difficult in more ways than just emotionally. As you seek the best choices for your son or daughter, we’d like to share some aspects of who we are that make the Wayland experience well worth the expense of private education. Dr. Paul Armes, University President While affordability and cost are vital components, they really don’t tell the entire story, and the value aspect is one to consider before you and your student make the final choice of where they’ll spend their important college years. The truth is, higher education is really an investment, not an expense, and your son or daughter should be investing his or her future in an institution that provides more than just a diploma at the end of their journey. Inside, we’ll show you a little more about who we are and why the Wayland experience is a good value for your family.