2026-2027 Academic Year
What is it?
FAM is a community experience designed to help you make the most of your time at EWU. Through shared meals, meaningful conversations, fun activities, networking, service opportunities, and personal and professional development, you’ll build connections, explore new experiences, and find support throughout the academic year.
FAM encourages you to (1) Familiarize yourself with campus resources and the local community, (2) Affirm your dedication to your education and your reason for pursuing a degree, and (3) recognize that you Matter — your needs, your aspirations, your skills and talents all matter at EWU.
Whether you’re a first-generation student, new to campus, looking for a stronger sense of belonging, or just want to connect with other students who are focused on growth and success, FAM is for you.
What to expect:
Connect with other students at quarterly gatherings that include a meal and engaging activities. These events are a chance to learn, have fun, enjoy cultural cuisines, and build lasting friendships.
Find your people. FAM is a supportive community where students can build relationships, network with university employees and local organizations, share experiences, and feel a stronger sense of belonging at EWU. In addition, FAM students receive specialized support from JLR Multicultural Center staff.
Explore topics that help you thrive in college and beyond, including leadership, time management, navigating resources, mental health, and preparing for your future career.
Make a positive impact through volunteer and service-learning opportunities throughout the year. Give back to the campus and local community while developing valuable skills and connections.
Commitment
FAM takes place throughout the 2026-2027 academic year. The program’s main touchpoints are quarterly meetups that include a meal and activity, with additional volunteer and service-learning opportunities offered throughout the year. By signing up, you are agreeing to attend each of the quarterly meetups.
How much does it cost?
Thanks to generous donors, peer leaders, and campus partners, FAM is FREE OF CHARGE! The program is hosted by the JLR Multicultural Center and is supported by many partners in order to cover the cost of meals, supplies, guest speakers, and more.
Eligibility
All undergraduate students at EWU are welcome to sign up. Returning FAM members are welcome and do not need to re-apply.
Who Should Join?
FAM is a great fit if you are…
- A first-generation college student
- Looking to build community and make meaningful connections
- Interested in personal and professional growth
- Wanting to get more involved on campus
- Unsure where to find support and resources
- Ready to make the most of your college experience
Join the FAM!
Sign up today to be a part of a welcoming community, enjoy shared meals at the JLRMC, get connected to opportunities and services on campus, and learn from peers through a shared experience.
You can join the program anytime until March of 2027. However, activities will begin at the start of fall quarter 2026 — sign up before October 14th to make the most of it!
Participants said the most beneficial part of FAM was that:
“I was able to meet new people and feel like I have a support system. This is the most impactful because I feel like I belong here.”
“It helps to know that there are people here to help when I need it.”
“It helped me make friends and be able to open up about my concerns.”
