Helping Our Undergraduates Succeed in Education (HOUSE)
West Virginia State University offers a unique program for at-risk youth and formerly homeless and battered women who want to begin their college education. The overall goals for the HOUSE program are to help improve the economic prospects for the members of our community, revitalize our neighborhood, and provide transitional housing for at-risk youth, while giving them an opportunity to attend and succeed at college.
Program Structure
Students will enroll in classes at WVSU to obtain a 2 year (Associate) or 4 year (Bachelor) degree in a variety of subjects available on campus. While attending classes, youth will spend their first two semesters living in the HOUSE facility. Students will have an opportunity to get accustomed to college life before moving into a residence hall or an apartment of their own. Basic living skills will be taught and practiced in the HOUSE, including: time management, budgeting, study skills, and learning to access community resources. The added support of the HOUSE staff will make the transition into college an easier journey.
HOUSE is staffed by two full-time Resident Assistants who reside in the facility, a Basic Living Skills Instructor, and a Program Coordinator who oversees everyone in the HOUSE. The HOUSE can provide accommodations for 6 students, with all rooms being double occupancy. There is a full kitchen, laundry room, and living room area as well.
The formerly homeless and battered women participating in HOUSE have the opportunity to reside in their own apartment, located next to the facility for the youth. There are three apartments, one two-bedroom and two one-bedroom apartments. Residents of the apartments may live there throughout the duration of obtaining their degree as long as they are a full-time student. The Program Coordinator provides the same services to these program participants as well.
Students are expected to pay a reasonable amount for their room and board at the HOUSE. The Program Coordinator will assist the students in filing the proper paperwork to apply for federal grants to pay for tuition, fees, and books. (Eligibility for grant programs is based on income and need.)
By the end of their first year of college, students will have gained the skills and confidence necessary to successfully continue their college education toward the ultimate goal of a degree.
HOUSE Program Eligibility Requirements
- At-risk youth, between ages 17-21
- Formerly homeless or battered women, ages 17 and up
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Interest in obtaining a college education
Contact Information
If you are interested in starting a college education, do not let this opportunity pass you by!
For more information or to apply, contact:
David Boyles, (304) 766-6994
HOUSE Program Coordinator
Kim Hutton, (304) 766-5752
Extension Specialist Adult and Family Education
HOUSE and Phase II Program Application
HOUSE Program
303 Douglas Street
PO BOX 1000
Institute, WV 25112-1000
