On this episode of The Bold Path Podcast, Idaho State University President Robert Wagner welcomes Dr. Craig Chatriand, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, to discuss one of ISU’s central commitments in its Contract for Idaho: ensuring that a life-changing college education remains accessible and affordable.
President Wagner and Dr. Chatriand look beyond tuition to examine the full cost of attendance, including housing, dining, books, fees, and the experiences that make college meaningful. They discuss ISU’s efforts to keep on-campus living costs competitive, expand residential options through a planned new housing facility, and help students understand their actual college costs through scholarships, state and federal financial aid, and one-on-one financial guidance.
The conversation also highlights programs that lower barriers while connecting students with real-world opportunities. Dr. Chatriand explains how ISU’s paid Career Path Internship Program gives students meaningful work experience without requiring them to take on unpaid internships, and how on-campus employment can help students earn income while building career skills. The episode also explores support resources including the Academic Success Center, academic advising, the Career Center, Counseling and Testing Service, wellness and recreation programs, subsidized child care, and the new Catalyst program designed to help incoming students begin the semester with strong academic habits.
Together, Wagner and Chatriand emphasize that Idaho State serves a wide range of learners including recent high school graduates, first-generation students, working adults, transfer students, student parents, and online learners. Their message to prospective Bengals is straightforward: college may be more attainable than families expect, and ISU is ready to help students identify the financial support, academic resources, and campus connections that can turn an educational goal into a reality.
