We want you to succeed both in and out of the classroom.
The Taylor Family Center for Student Success creates an infrastructure of support to assist low-income and first-generation undergraduate students at WashU with their transition to and through college.
We take an expansive view of student success, realizing that success on both the academic and non-academic fronts impact and inform each other. We use this understanding to guide our approach to the various programs and initiatives within our diverse portfolio.
Taylor Scholars
Taylor Scholars is an invitation-only community that provides you with support during your four years at WashU. This program provides students with a strong supportive community that provides encouragement, resources, and a place for collaboration.
Taylor Scholars Orientation
The annual orientation program is designed specifically for first-year students joining the Taylor Scholars community. You’ll participate in a variety of activities focused on facilitating a seamless and fun transition to campus. Programming includes team-building activities; student panels; dinners with peers; bonding time with your peer-mentor, faculty and staff; and information on how to access resources and opportunities across campus.
Additional resources for first-gen and low-income students at WashU
TRIO
The TRIO program provides support to undergraduate scholars that identify as first-generation, limited-Income, and/or have a learning or physical disability. The program aims to introduce students to an array of high-impact experiences that aid in their holistic success and help them to maximize their full potential. The TRIO Scholars Program at WashU has been in operation for fifty years, making it one of the longest continuous funded programs in the history of the United States Department of Education.
Kessler Scholars
The Kessler Scholars Program at WashU is part of the national Kessler Scholars Collaborative . Together, these schools are transforming the undergraduate experience for first-generation college students. Students who join the Kessler Scholars Program are part of a powerful network of first-generation leaders connected across multiple institutions throughout their undergraduate college experience and beyond.
QuestBridge
WashU has partnered with QuestBridge, a leading nonprofit that connects high-achieving, low-income students to the nation’s best colleges. They match students with colleges, providing full scholarships, resources, and support throughout the college journey. This program has its own unique application process.
Student success resources
We recognize that costs shift from semester to semester and may fall outside of what is considered part of your traditional “cost of attendance.” We are committed to ensuring that you aren’t unnecessarily burdened by unexpected situations that may arise during your time here. If you find yourself in need of financial aid, there are various grants that you may be eligible to apply for.
Residential life projects
With our campus partners in Dining Services, Hillel, Chabad, the Muslim Students Association, and the Vice Chancellor for Operations and Technology Transfer, the Office for Student Success played a pivotal role broadening the availability of kosher and halal meal availability on the Danforth Campus. We continue to work with all interested parties to ensure that all students have access to quality and adequate food options on campus.