The Essential Experience

The Essential Experience is what you get at Western. You don't just sit at a desk and learn. You get out of your chair and actually do it. Interactive classes and internships get you the skills you need when you graduate. Classes are rarely boring. And they can get you into the work world fast; most programs can be completed in two years or less.

Western Athletics Essential Experience

Western Athletics works to provide the Essential Experience for all student-athletes. The Essential Experience for our student-athletes means overall development in three key areas: Classroom, Community, and Competitive Environment.

In the classroom, you are challenged to not only meet the minimum requirements for eligibility but to excel. Learning is different for everyone which is why we provide an array of resources and supports to ensure you can thrive. Our PALS Program ensures student-athletes have what they need to be successful. In addition, the Western Learning Commons provides library services, tutoring, and college prep programs for Western students. As a Western student-athlete, you will have the Essential Experience in the classroom.

At Western, we care about your academic success as well as your personal wellbeing. You will develop as a member of the Western community where you will have access to a variety of Western programs. Our programs are designed to meet a broad range of student needs from fitness, nutrition, counseling, socialization to career planning, job search, and interview tips. The Essential Experience as a member of the Western Community emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion recognizing the value that each student brings to campus.

Not only will you develop as a member of the Western community, but you will also have the Essential Experience as a member of the La Crosse community. We want our Western student-athletes to be active members of the community. We focus on building relationships with community members and organizations through volunteering, internships, and jobs. Our community impact helps students gain the skills, networking, and experiences that are essential to success after their Western years.

Lastly, our student-athletes get the Essential Experience in the competitive environment. Our department of expert coaches helps you develop in your respective sport. In addition, our athletic performance program develops student-athletes physically and mentally while reducing the risk of injury and optimizing performance. Our athletic facilities ensure a safe environment where you can thrive! The Essential Experience in the competitive environment means more than your time at Western. Our goal is to get you the exposure so that you can continue your athletic journey at a four-year college after graduating from Western.

The Essential Experience is what you get at Western. The Essential Experience is what every student-athlete will have when being a member of the Western athletic teams. We focus on student development in the classroom, community, and competitive environment so you will have immediate and future success in sport, career, and life. Western Athletics is more than wins and losses, it's a journey to overall success.