WUSS (Western Users of SAS Software)

WUSS is officially recognized as the SAS user group of the western region of the U.S. It is a nonprofit, educational organization that provides SAS system users with professional development opportunities and a forum to exchange ideas. Every year, Cal Poly sends approximately 15 students to this conference, many of whom earn academic scholarships to attend. This three-day conference offers students with several learning opportunities, including full and half-day training classes, presentations, hands-on workshops and an exhibit and demo area. Students are also given several opportunities to network with professionals.

Though this conference is typically expensive, full-time undergraduate or graduate students are eligible for regular and travel scholarships. Over the years, the majority of Cal Poly students have received regular scholarships and a few have received travel scholarships. The regular scholarship includes complimentary conference registration, two free half-day classes of your choice, and a discounted hotel room rate. WUSS requires all scholarship participants to fulfill a volunteer role, such assession or class coordinator. The travel scholarship requires an accepted abstract for the conference and a poster or paper presentation. It includes full hotel room rate coverage and up to $350 for travel expenses.

This conference is a great opportunity for students to network with professionals and learn more about the SAS System. In the past, students have expressed how much they enjoy the complimentary recruiting luncheon where they get to talk about their resumes and job application tips. They also learn the newest information in SAS and future innovations and learn from those already in the industry. The conference is a great opportunity for students and anyone interested in attending should feel free to talk to any statistics major who has attended.