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WCU Stories

Biking on with a view of campus

Countdown to Cullowhee: 6 Days

When you see campus, there is only one way to describe what you feel. You don’t know how you know, but you know. It could be the sense of place you feel or the wonder of nature that surrounds you or the connections you’ve forged with forever friends and mentors, but only one thought crosses your mind. This…is home.  

Student watching a sunset

Countdown to Cullowhee: 7 Days

Just as sure as the sun rises, it sets. While you’re at WCU, make the most of the time you have. Soak in the wonder and make the most of your experience. When you look back on your time here you don’t want to think of what you wish you had done, but reminisce about the memories you made while you were here and all the many things you accomplished.  

An aerial shot of the wcu stadium

Countdown to Cullowhee: 8 Days

Break out your purple and gold and get ready to cheer on the Catamounts! Another exciting year of athletics is upon us. From homecoming and tailgating, to events for every sport, you’ll never run out of chances to cheer on our student-athletes. Get to know the fight song…you’re going to need it!  

Student fishing in the Tuckaseegee river

Countdown to Cullowhee: 9 Days

Whether you want to catch a fish in the Tuckasegee River, bike a mountain trail, or set up camp under the night sky, outdoor adventure isn’t hard to find. Basecamp Cullowhee makes it easy to get any equipment you need or join in on a group excursion. With so much to choose from, all you’re going to have to do is decide what’s next.  

Students driving on the parkway

Countdown to Cullowhee: 10 Days

The Blue Ridge Parkway weaves its way through our beautiful mountains, connecting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park all the way to Virginia. Entrances close to campus mean adventure is never too far away. The parkway’s 469 miles promise breathtaking views, hiking, camping, waterfalls, and so much more. If you ever feel like you need a moment to reflect, take a break, or just explore, the parkway is your go-to.  

An image of the United States Capitol Building in Washington, D.C

What is the Government Shutdown?

Today, January 17, marks the 26th day of the federal government’s partial shutdown. This past weekend, the shutdown became the longest in history when it surpassed the previous record set in 1995. In our role as an institution of higher education, we consider this sort of moment in history a learning opportunity for our students, as well as our larger community. Watch as our on-campus experts breakdown the government shutdown in five minutes.  

Kevin Rumley

Alumni and Veteran Finds Peace After 'Journey of a Million Steps'

Graduating veteran finds peace after 'journey of a million steps' | Graduated, enlisted, blown up, hospitalized, released, addicted, homeless, hopeless, rescued, enrolled, graduated, employed, enrolled, graduated, honored, redeemed. Read between those lines a minute, and listen...  

Aerial Winter Shot

Happy Holidays from WCU

Sending you warm winter wishes from your friends at Western Carolina University. May you find yourself wrapped in the charm and the wonder of the holidays. Season’s greetings – from our Catamount family to yours!  

Amanda Muse

Pride of the Mountain Marching Band Snare Drum Player Inspires the Next Generation

Amanda Muse is one of very few female snare drum players who perform at the highest levels of marching band. After overcoming stereotypes and physical challenges, Amanda uses her talent to inspire a new generation of musicians. The Pride of the Mountains Marching Band has given her the opportunity to share her gift with thousands of younger drummers. It has also given her the ride of a lifetime while performing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and at the Bands of America Grand Nationals competition in Indianapolis, Indiana.  

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