Hometown: Boise, Idaho
Major: Sociology
Graduation: 2012
“College of Western Idaho (CWI) had an incredible impact on my life," recalled 2012 alumna, Amanda Graham. "I left with an associate degree and zero student loan debt which, I think, is pretty empowering! Because of CWI, I went from a shy, young girl to a confident leader."
Amanda had dreams of attending a private, liberal arts college as a young 16-year old.
“In 2009, both of my parents lost their jobs. I was a month away from graduating high school, and suddenly we couldn’t afford in-state tuition at a public university.”
CWI opened its doors to students that same year and quickly became an affordable and viable option for Amanda.
“My parents worked hard to make college a reality for me. They were not only influential in my decision to go to college and helped keep me motivated throughout the journey.”
As a CWI student, Amanda helped to create the College’s first student government, the Associated Students of College of Western Idaho (ASCWI) and became the organizations first president. As the ASCWI president she advocated for students’ interests, met regularly with the College’s president and Board of Trustees, gave speeches, and attended events with legislators.
“I developed lifelong passions, skills, and friends at CWI."
Amanda graduated from CWI in 2012 with an Associate of Arts in Sociology. Following CWI, she transferred to Boise State University where she completed a bachelor’s degree in Sociology in 2015. Amanda now works for the Information Division of the Idaho Supreme Court as an Administrative Assistant to the Chief Information Officer. She will begin law school this fall.
