Welcome BBQ Kicks Off a New Year for UW Bothell School of Business DFA Students
On August 27th, the University of Washington Bothell School of Business welcomed its incoming class of Direct First-Year Admit (DFA) students with an exciting BBQ event. With over 70 attendees, including students, faculty, staff, and UW Bothell leadership, the event provided a warm introduction to life as a business student at UW Bothell.
The DFA program continues to grow in popularity, with an impressive 95% of the 156 students who applied confirming their admission. Representing 58 high schools from Washington State and Canada, this year’s cohort boasts an average GPA of 3.7, with 60% of the students having completed Running Start programs.
“It was exciting to see our incoming DFA students meet each other for the first time. The new connections and friendships will serve as a community and a network for years to come. ” -Tracy Gojdics, MBA, Director of Undergraduate Student Success
The Direct First-Year Admit Program: A Pathway to Success
From the moment they start classes, DFA students are eligible for School of Business scholarships, can declare Business Administration as their major, and begin networking with leading companies. Additionally, they have access to business-specific clubs, events, and the Career Services office, providing them with a comprehensive support system.
The Direct First-Year Admit (DFA) Program is a unique opportunity for incoming students with a passion for business to directly join the UW Bothell School of Business upon admission. Once accepted, DFA students gain immediate access to a wide range of business specific resources and opportunities designed to help them succeed both academically and professionally.
A Day of Fun, Networking, and Learning
With a game of networking Bingo as the centerpiece, the event became a dynamic blend of engaging interactions and introductions, setting the stage for a collaborative and spirited year ahead. The bean bag toss and prize wheel cranked up the excitement, giving everyone a chance to show off their skills and win School of Business swag while mingling and making new friends.
“A business education is all about collaborating with fellow students as you pursue your goals. The DFA program is a great way to start students off right in this regard. Today the students made new connections with those who will push them and support them over the next four years.” -Stephen Jones, PhD, Associate Professor of Management, Management & Organization Area Coordinator
In addition to networking with their peers, students were greeted by UW Bothell faculty and staff, including Vice Chancellor Sharon Jones and Associate Dean of Administration Sophie Leroy, who welcomed them to the School of Business community. Students learned about key resources available to them, such as academic advising services. These services are designed to support them from their very first day on campus through to graduation. That is what sets a DFA students apart- their belonging to the business community from the day they become a UW Bothell student.
“The DFA Program at UW Bothell School of Business provides students with a high-quality and innovative business education in a supportive learning environment” -Sophie Leroy
Associate Dean of Administration & Programs, Sophie Leroy welcomed DFA students to this inaugural event sharing the unique value of being part of the prestigious program. “The DFA Program provides an enriching, dynamic, and innovative business education for you. You are a business leader from Day 1, taking advantage of business courses taught by our world-class instructors while also participating in co-curricular activities that will connect you to the major employers in the region and expose you to many business professions and industries.”
“Our goal is for our students to become business leaders and have positive impacts on their community” “Our DFA program sets you up for success through courses taught by our world-class instructors and through the co-curricular activities and programs we have available that will connect you to the major employers in the region and expose you to many business professions and industries.” -Sophie Leroy
Building a Strong Foundation for the Future
The DFA BBQ marked the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey for these talented and ambitious students. With the support of the School of Business’s dedicated faculty and staff, they are well-equipped to take advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to apply for the Direct First-Year Admit Program and kickstarting your journey into the world of business at UW Bothell please learn more here:
“We are thrilled to welcome DFA students to the UW Bothell School of Business. We look forward to supporting their academic and career journey ahead.” – Sophie Leroy
