Embodying Duke with Josh

Transcript

Let’s all give a warm welcome to Josh, from Burns Flat, Oklahoma, a Pre-Pharmacy student who has a unique story to tell about his time as Duke, the SWOSU mascot, for the last three semesters. We all can’t wait to hear about the path to Pharmacy school and the adventures behind the mascot suit. Josh, we’re excited to hear your story. Take it away.

– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. From competing in math competitions during elementary school to taking online concurrent classes in high school, I’ve always looked for opportunities to learn. I may have never decided which career to pursue in high school, but I did learn how to take advantage of great educators. That’s why I chose Southwestern Oklahoma State University. At SWOSU, I face challenging pre-pharmacy courses like Microbiology, Human Anatomy and Calculus. The dedicated professors at SWOSU always go above and beyond to help me succeed in my coursework, like when my Microbiology professor left the laboratory unlocked for us to get some extra practice gram staining bacteria. The application process into Pharmacy School was much easier than I had anticipated. The interview was done by a couple of the Pharmacy School professors who were extremely friendly and reassuring during the entire multi-step interview process. I wouldn’t have been accepted into Pharmacy School if it wasn’t for the support of my professors. SWOSU’s dedicated faculty and staff are the reason I’ve been able to make it this far. I got introduced to mascotting by a friend who was secretly one of the mascots. Mascotting has been one of the greatest experiences for me. Through mascotting, I attended the Glow Prom and brought the joy of Duke to special needs individuals attending the prom. It always makes me smile thinking back to when I successfully coaxed a kid out of their seat and onto the dance floor. Through all these experiences at SWOSU, my passion for my future career as a pharmacist has grown. Most importantly though, I’ve learned how to make lasting connections and friendships that will help me build a fulfilling career. That’s all for me, Alex. Back to you.

– Josh, it sounds like your journey from the classroom to the mascot costume has definitely been an adventure. The support you’ve received from your professors truly shines through. And let’s not forget how you brought so much joy to so many as Duke. Keep shining both in and out of the mascot suit. Thanks for sharing.