Warren Wilson College Work Program - (828) 771-3743

Residential students are required to work 240 hrs/sem & 480 hrs/academic year in the Work Program. One full year of on-campus work is required to graduate.

As a Warren Wilson student, you will appreciate the work experience and the pride in seeing yourself manage classes, work, and service successfully. Everyone contributing and working together creates an air of respect which feeds the spirit of community on our campus.

All resident students log 15 hours a week with an assigned work crew—one of over 100 crews essential to the daily operation of the College. You might be relied upon for computer repair, library support, dorm maintenance, or dining services. Or you might be trained to design publications, catalog an arrowhead, or plow fields. In return, you'll earn $3,480 in credit toward the cost of attendance.

Through the work program, you'll develop skills in organization, time management, and communication. You'll gain confidence acting in supervisory roles as well as enjoy being part of the team. Your years of work experience will give you a distinct advantage when applying for jobs or to graduate schools. Warren Wilson graduates regularly have high placement rates into graduate programs, veterinary and medical schools, and organizations such as the Peace Corps and the National Park Service.

"Work at Warren Wilson is important because if you do not do the job then who will? I always begin my orientation to new students with that statement. Students should set standards and know that work is a reflection of themselves. I believe work has to be real and have a purpose. Warren Wilson work is real and students deal with real issues. ... issues such as how do I perform good work in a job assignment I don't particularly like? Should I work in a job that I feel comfortable in or challenge myself with new experiences?

The advantages of work are many. ... It stretches your capabilities, questions your preconceived notions, and contributes to the cost of your education. I get excited when I hear students use work situations to explain concepts in the classroom or to translate academic theories into work issues.

As a new student, expect to work. Challenge yourself to attain new skills. Be purposeful as you look over the opportunities but, most of all, accept your work assignment and do good work."
-Ian Robertson, Dean of Work

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