From Orientation to Celebration: CAPS Students Step In To What’s Next 

Dean Sean Armstrong set the welcoming tone with a few dad jokes and a reassuring message: every student in the room already had the tools to succeed. 

“Education is just the first step in what you’ll do for the rest of your lives,” he said, noting that many modern learners return to school with renewed focus. “You’ll find that your grades are probably better now and you take things a little bit more seriously.” 

Rebecca O’Laughlin, Student Pathways Manager, offered a detailed overview of the many resources available to CAPS students. 

“As CAPS students, you have access to a lot of resources at the university,” she said, pointing to subject librarians, the Writing Center and its Speaking Studio, Disability Resources, the Learning Center and the Center for Career Engagement. 

O’Laughlin also reviewed academic expectations, Canvas navigation, and the importance of checking WashU email regularly. She emphasized that CAPS faculty and Student Success Navigators are here to help. 

“Talk to your faculty members,” she said. “Your instructors want you to be successful. They want to get to know you. Don’t be afraid to reach out.” 

Coaching: The Whole Student Journey 

Kallie Reyes, Director of Graduate Programs, echoed that support, explaining how CAPS uses a holistic coaching approach. 

“Your Student Success Navigators aren’t just here to support your coursework,” she said. “We’re here to support your life—whatever transitions or challenges you’re navigating. If something’s getting in the way of attending class or staying on track, reach out early and often.” 

Jacquelin Meaders Booth, CAPS Career Specialist, encouraged students to take full advantage of career development resources. She outlined services including career coaching, resume support, mock interviews and networking opportunities tailored to CAPS students’ goals. 

The highlight of the evening was the student panel, featuring current students Jason Minner and Vava Jackson. Each offered candid reflections and encouragement to the newest members of the CAPS community. 

Jackson, a student in the Bachelor of Science in Integrated Studies: Strategic Communications program and a staff member at Olin Business School, urged students to be bold. 

“If you’re just starting out or going back to school, just go for it,” she said. “Tell yourself this is what I’m going to do. There’s so much opportunity here. CAPS has helped me mature and figure out how to raise myself up.” 

Minner, who transferred to CAPS from a community college, spoke to the unique culture of care he’s found in the program. 

“I feel like these people actually care about the route that I’m going down, and they want to help me succeed,” he said. “Every professor at WashU CAPS says, ‘Hey, come to me if you have an issue.’ They don’t want you to fall behind.” 

The energy in the room—focused, encouraging and full of possibility—carried into the night as students, faculty and staff joined the broader WashU community for a post-Convocation party in Tisch Park. 

Laughter, music and conversation filled the park as WashU marked the start of Fall 2025 with optimism and unity. It was a joyful conclusion to a powerful evening—and a clear reminder that every CAPS student, no matter their path, belongs here.