Admissions at Johnson & Wales College of Professional Studies:
An Interview with Grace Pericolo, ’20, Associate Director of Enrollment Management
Thinking about going back to school? Consider JWU College of Professional Studies, where our customer-focused admissions team responds personally to every inquiry and application.
Grace Pericolo, Associate Director of Enrollment Management, shares insights into the application and enrollment process, and answers prospective students’ most frequently asked questions. “Our team genuinely cares about each student’s experience,” Grace explains. “We are hands-on in how we support students every step of the way.”
JWU CPS staff and faculty all build one-on-one relationships with students to create a supportive online community. “We’re working towards a common goal, and it shows in the quality of our work.”
Online Education
Extending the university’s mission to deliver an exceptional educational experience, CPS programs are designed for working professionals needing flexible schedules. “Many CPS students are balancing family responsibilities with full-time careers,” Grace explains. “Our online education gives student the ability to pursue career-focused degrees.”
“Online courses require significant effort and dedication,” Grace notes. “On-campus courses credit students’ in-class participation, while online courses grade primarily on the quality of students’ written work ― making online learning just as rigorous as traditional classes.”
Admissions Process
JWU CPS provides a personalized enrollment and orientation experience. “Our admissions associates engage directly with prospective students through calls, texts, and emails,” Grace says. “We ensure you feel welcome from the first point of contact throughout your JWU journey.”
Application
The application process is straightforward and takes about 10 minutes. Admissions associates assist with application steps, including requesting transcripts on your behalf. “We often cover transcript costs and collaborate with financial planners and student services to resolve issues efficiently,” says Grace. “If you request help, we’ll guide you through the entire process.”
Express Transfer Evaluation
JWU CPS has a generous transfer policy, with no expiration on credits. “We accept most previously earned credits from accredited institutions and typically complete evaluations within 48 hours,” Grace states. “This policy helps students continue their education without losing valuable credits from past coursework.”
Acceptance and Orientation
After you have been accepted at JWU CPS, the admissions team manages course registration and helps with your textbook purchases. “We aim to register students in courses with no-cost or zero-cost textbooks,” Grace emphasizes. Personalized orientation prepares students for online learning, ensuring they are comfortable with the online learning platform before classes begin.
Conditional Acceptance
Also notable about the admissions process, JWU CPS considers individual circumstances for conditional acceptance. “It’s not black and white. We look at each applicant holistically, understanding that life events can impact academic performance,” Grace explains. “For example, if someone’s GPA doesn’t meet the standard requirement due to past circumstances, we consider their current readiness and willingness to pursue education. We strive to empower students to feel confident about their educational journey.”
A Smoother Enrollment Process
“We’re just a click away at [email protected]. We look forward to meeting you online!”
The admissions team supports students throughout the enrollment process. “Stay in contact with us,” Grace advises. “We’re here to cheer you on and advocate for your needs. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, we provide guidance and support to help you succeed. Whether you’ve been out of school for a few years or decades, our team is dedicated to making your enrollment process as smooth as possible.”