Western Washington University is facing a reorganization of programs which includes cutting out the Intensive English Program (IEP) and Asia University America Program (AUAP). International students at Western Washington University, the faculty and staff, and the local students at Western Washington University are deeply saddened to hear this news. The professors and other faculty who run these programs are some of the most dedicated, caring, hardworking individuals that our school has, and the love and time they put into our international students is immense. Local students often work with these international programs and benefit from the knowledge, friendship and life long relationships they gain from interacting with each other. 

The IEP/AUAP programs provide comfort, security, and care for all international students arriving at WWU. Students seek help from the staff of these programs when they need medical support, living arrangement support, travel support, or academic support. Students are accounted for by the professors in all aspects; and even situations as detailed as where they will be traveling for breaks. The staff is focused and committed to making international students feel welcome, loved, and safe. If these programs end, that means the jobs of numerous staff and faculty also come to an end. We cannot let this happen.

Western Washington University thrives on diversity, but as it stands, has less than 1% of international students. This is amongst the lowest percentages in the entire state. If these programs are shut down, this number will continue to decrease leaving Western Washington University with little to no diversity at all. It is essential that we as a community come together and advocate for our students and professors to how important they are to the success of not only our academic community, but our local community as a whole. 

Help us save our IEP Program!!!