WKU News

Traditionally, for a student to earn a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree, they would spend about six to seven years in college. At WKU, with the Joint Undergraduate-Master’s Programs (JUMP), students can earn both in five years. Hanna Van Winkle, a student from Slaughters, KY, is doing just that while working full-time.

Van Winkle chose WKU because she wanted to follow in the footsteps of her family.

“My grandparents met at WKU in 1964 and both of their daughters, one being my mom, and all four grandchildren, including me, have attended and graduated from WKU. I was looking for a place with immense opportunities for involvement, strong academic programs, and a campus community feel. WKU has all of that and more. The Spirit truly makes the Master and choosing WKU is one of the best decisions I have ever made!”

Van Winkle’s love of WKU grew through campus activities and getting involved has changed her career path.

“After entering college, I became involved with several on-campus organizations, including the Topper Orientation Program. I noticed that Higher Education was a very important and engaging field where I could apply my major areas of study and passion for helping students. Student Affairs is the perfect Master’s program for a career in Higher Education, so I enrolled in the JUMP program. I have thoroughly enjoyed earning credit for undergraduate and graduate courses at the same time. The JUMP program has given me the chance to start pursuing my chosen career early, so that completing it is more efficient and effective. As a current employee in the field of Higher Education, I am able to apply helping skills, inclusivity, college experience relations, and counseling skills each and every day. The faculty and staff have been incredibly helpful and made being a part of the program extremely rewarding.”

Van Winkle will graduate with her Master’s degree in Student Affairs in December 2022. She is currently working in the Office of Admissions as an Admissions Counselor.

Van Winkle says, “I thoroughly enjoy my job and getting to share the importance of college and attending WKU with current high school students and their families. I hope to continue in this position and grow as a professional in the field. After graduation, I want to continue to grow in my current position and strive to be connected with and help students in whatever position in the field I may be in next.”

Her advice to future Hilltoppers is, “Get involved and do something you’re passionate about! Truly immerse yourself in the Hilltopper community. You will not regret it!”

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You can learn more about the Student Affairs JUMP degree here.

CEBS also offers JUMP degrees in Counseling and Organizational Leadership.