During a recent dinner at Weber State University, I found myself in the company of a dean, a senior vice president and an associate vice president. The conversation naturally veered toward their university experiences when they were students. Initially, I assumed these accomplished individuals had similar paths, but what fascinated me was discovering how each person’s story was remarkably unique, shaped by challenges and personal struggles. Like any good story, there was a pivotal moment where they questioned their abilities, but each had someone by their side, supporting and affirming their potential with a resounding “Yes, you can.”

Reflecting on my own journey, I’m not sure where I would have ended up if I hadn’t pursued my undergraduate degree. Deep down, I have a slacker mentality and I could have easily settled for selling refrigerator magnets as a laid-back surfer in Hawaii. It took some time for me to complete my degree, not because I faced extraordinary challenges but because I faced personal struggles that were difficult to overcome.

Like so many others, I had to navigate the process of growing up, and the university was a safe space for me to learn and make mistakes. My freshman year was particularly challenging as it brought a series of first-time experiences: the first time a girlfriend broke my heart, the first time I had to take care of my own meals, the first time I had to figure out how to financially support myself. In hindsight, these may not seem like significant challenges, but for an 18-year-old venturing out on his own, they felt monumental. It was often tempting to give up and return home, but the university had the infrastructure to lift me up and keep me going.

On campus, I formed deep connections and lifelong friendships. These were essential because, as a bit of a slacker, I needed that support and camaraderie. I found these things, surprisingly, in my fraternity and rugby team. Although it may sound superficial to some, they provided the understanding and companionship that I needed. While the advice I received may not have always been the best, that wasn’t what mattered most. What mattered was that someone care about my well-being. They valued me and wanted me to stay.

I consider myself fortunate because, like many things in my life, I stumbled into finding support. Unfortunately, many others haven’t been as lucky and have dropped out of college due to a lack of support. This needs to change. Universities must be intentional in offering pathways and support systems from the very beginning of a student’s college experience.

Weber State is dedicated to developing personalized pathways for each student, acknowledging that everyone faces their own unique struggles and requires individualized assistance. We recognize that education encompasses more than just the classroom, and we’re committed to fostering a safe environment where students can explore their abilities, overcome obstacles and uncover their full potential.

Although some people have questioned college and the value of higher education, the university experience offers much more than academic exercises; it gives students an environment for personal growth, self-discovery and building lifelong friendships. It’s a place to find support, guidance and resources that can help you navigate the challenges you’re facing.

Tapping into these resources hasn’t always been easy. However, Weber State is actively working on meeting students where they are and providing the necessary infrastructure to ensure individual success. Whether you’re an 18-year-old high school graduate, a career changer in your mid-40s or a first-generation college student, WSU aims to deliver resources and support tailored to your specific needs.

So, if you’re considering attending Weber State, take the plunge and talk with us. We’ve been there. Let us show you how we can support and help you succeed. If you’ve had a negative experience in the past, consider giving it another chance. No institution is perfect, but Weber State’s dedication to student success is evident in its leadership, faculty and staff. We’re confident you can overcome any challenge and find your place of belonging at Weber. We’re here to prove, “Yes, you can.”

James Taylor is the executive director of innovation, commercialization, sponsored projects and research at WSU.

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