The Economics Department is very supportive of the Fellows program and was the first department to make special arrangements allowing all required coursework to be completed in the first year. My graduate courses in Economics and Geography provided me a solid foundation for development work, and a special Fellows seminar provided ongoing practical training. My graduate assistantship in the Institute for Rural Affairs never conflicted with my studies, and gave me a unique opportunity for research and writing on rural development. Western Illinois University is an ideal size. It provides the benefits of both a small college and a large university.
Faculty are always accessible.
The library is exceptional but never overly crowded. The music and theater departments have regular performances. The WIU Bureau of Cultural Affairs brings in a variety of internationally acclaimed performing artists. The campus National Public Radio and alternative rock stations are excellent. I began my community work in June, 1995.