Introducing Jaden, a political science major and business in Spanish minor. Jaden’s sense of purpose runs deep. He’s always wanted to spend his life making a difference in the world. At UAlbany, he’s found the perfect match for his pursuits in a public service minded university. Conveniently located near the third largest seat of government in the US. Jaden, tell us more.
– Hey everyone. My journey into politics and public service started long before I came to Albany. My passion has always been community service and activism. From leading community initiatives to fighting for marginalized groups, my goal has always been to create real change. That’s why New Albany located in the heart of New York’s capital was the perfect place for me at New Albany’s Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy, I’m given the chance to learn more about the inner workings of government and master the complexities of politics. As an intern with New York State Assembly, I get hands-on experience working on policy, engaging with advocacy groups, and drafting agendas that help shape legislation. I’m learning from people who are making a difference every single day, and I am not alone. UAlbany students are deeply engaged in civic action and understand the importance that government plays in our daily lives. As part of the inaugural Youth Service Summit sponsored by the Allstate Foundation, I promoted service and community engagement. These incredible opportunities to get involved at the political and community level truly enriched my college experience and prepare me for a successful career. Beyond academics UAlbany provides countless leadership opportunities. As vice president of Phenomenal voices. I use my platform to inspire and uplift others through music. I’m also an orientation leader, and a resident assistant helping students transition to college life. UAlbany is truly a place where students don’t just learn about leadership. We put it into action. Through all these experiences, UAlbany has prepared me for a career in public service. I’m getting the knowledge and skills to continue making a difference. No matter what major you choose, UAlbany ensures that you are ready to take on the world. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you so much, Jaden. It sounds like you’ve taken full advantage of UAlbany’s broad range of hands-on opportunities to grow and give back. It’s people like you who make this world a better place. Thanks again for this peak into your journey at UAlbany.
Let’s catch up with Allison. She’s in junior and an atmospheric science major. UAlbany has one of the nation’s best climate and weather programs, perfect for someone like Allison who’s been captivated by the power of the weather her whole life. What better place to discover the mysteries of the atmosphere? Allison, we love to hear your full story. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. I’ve always known I wanted to pursue a career in meteorology and it was Hurricane Sandy that solidified my decision. I was scared but fascinated by the storm and that experience led me to majoring in atmospheric science at UAlbany, home to one of the best atmospheric and environmental science programs in the nation. One of the most fulfilling experiences I’ve had since I started here, was interning at the New York State Mesonet, a network of 127 weather stations, that provide real time observations for forecasting and research with headquarters right here at UAlbany, my learning experience has also not been limited to campus. Students have many opportunities to intern and even gain work experience with local TV stations like I was able to do at CBS 6 in Albany. These hands-on experiences have helped me bridge the gap between science and communication better preparing me for a career as a meteorologist. One of the main reasons I chose UAlbany is the incredible learning environment. eTech, the largest instructional building on our campus is home to the Department of Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences, the New York State resident, the State Weather Risk Communication Center, as well as the Albany National Weather Service Office, with more than 40 labs, 200 fantastic faculty members and 100 research industry partners. eTech offers a dynamic space for hands-on learning. Thanks to everything I’ve learned here at UAlbany, I feel prepared for a future career in meteorology, but it’s not just the academic experiences that have shaped me. I’ve met my best friends here at the university. My classmates and professors often feel like a family that supports us, which makes all the difference as I look ahead into my future career as a meteorologist. Now reporting for UAlbany Weather, handing the mic back to you, Alex.
– What a great story Allison, you’ve had incredible real world experiences through the university at Albany. It sounds like you’re on your way to the career of your dreams with a great support network of professors and friends. Keep up the good work. We’ll be watching for you on TV.
Let’s meet Reagan, a future educator, already gaining real classroom experience through Sweet Briar’s standout teacher education program, and her role as a resident advisor, Reagan is building the skills she’ll need to thrive in schools and support her future students. Let’s hear more. Reagan, take it away.
– Thanks, Alex, and hi, everyone. Growing up, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a teacher, so finding a program with a strong emphasis on leadership, education, and classroom experience was key. Sweet Briar has all of this and more, helping me grow as a future leader and educator. Sweet Briar’s teacher education program is one of the college’s strongest. From your very first education class, you’re placed into a local classroom to gain hands-on experience. As a freshman, I started my practicum in a kindergarten class at a partner school, which gave me an immediate and valuable start. I was able to see firsthand what it takes to be successful in the classroom. Sweet Briar offers licensure in elementary, secondary, and special education, even for students pursuing certification outside the state of Virginia. This education program prepares its future teachers with strong support and real classroom experiences. In addition to the classroom opportunities, being a resident advisor in a first year dorm has helped strengthen my skills. It’s helped me grow in leadership, communication, and building connections, all essential to being a successful teacher. Of course, Sweet Briar’s Teacher Prep Program stands out for its strong focus on real classroom experience, but working closely with mentor teachers and actual students enriches the experience even further. This has truly been key to me feeling career-ready. There are so many opportunities in and out of the classroom that directly support my future role as an educator. Sweet Briar’s preparing me to be a strong, inclusive teacher. I’ve had real classroom experiences, worked with a diverse range of students, and even secured my first classroom job, and being an RA has surely sharpened my people skills, something I know I’ll need in my career. That’s it from me, Alex. Thank you, and back to you.
– Reagan, your story is an excellent reminder that real world experience starts early at Sweet Briar. With a strong foundation in teaching and leadership, you’re ready to make a difference in education. We’re proud of the work you are doing and your future students are very lucky to have you. Thanks again.
Meet Amanda, a double major in engineering and business, who found her academic groove and spiritual support at Sweet Briar. With hands-on learning, diverse perspectives, and an ABET-accredited engineering degree on the horizon, Amanda’s experience reflects the balance of excellence and inclusivity that defines Sweet Briar. Tell us more, Amanda. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. My journey started with a love for learning, and a strong drive to succeed in school. I also love to stay active outside of the classroom, competing on my varsity basketball, track, and cross country team. Now, I’m a double major here at Sweet Briar, in engineering and business. I love it, because it allows my passion to grow, for problem-solving, and my real-world business skills. One of the things I love most about Sweet Briar is how naturally my academic and social lives come together. The engineering program immerses us in real-world challenges, from civil projects that shape communities, to software that powers innovation. Business courses add another layer, helping us learn how to lead in technical fields. I’m also on track to earn ABET-certification, which is a huge milestone for my career. And I’ve had some amazing professional opportunities that provided a real hands-on experience in my field. At the same time, the social life here is vibrant. We have events and gatherings all year round. There’s never a boring day. Sweet Briar’s commitment to diversity has been a huge blessing for me as a Christian. It’s a place where all faiths and people are welcome and supported. Corpus Christi is a lively coastal city, full of energy. Amherst is a quiet, rural town in the mountains. The contrast is striking, but I’ve come to appreciate such a peaceful setting, perfect for exploring nature, and enjoying a slower pace of life. And I’d like to thank my fiance, Jayden, and my parents for their unwavering support. I’d also like to thank Sweet Briar for having such a vibrant campus social life, amazing opportunities, and for just being a place that I can grow both professionally and personally. I’m so glad I decided to make this place my home. Back to you, Alex.
– Amanda, your passion for engineering and community shines through everything you’re doing here at Sweet Briar. From sports and faith to technical innovation, your story shows the strength of combining heart and intellect. Congratulations on all your success, we have a feeling, your journey is just beginning. Thanks again.
Let’s meet Sydnee, a dynamic leader with a passion for community. Whether mentoring new students, leading multicultural initiatives, or interning with non-profits, Sydnee uses every opportunity to grow. Her story reflects how Sweet Briar empowers students to lead with confidence and heart. Over to you, Sydnee.
– Thank you for the amazing introduction, Alex. Growing up, I was lucky to have a strong community to support my dreams. I was involved, whether it be serving on student government, starting a new club, or cheering at football games, I have always been driven by the desire to be a part of something bigger than myself. When I was applying to college, attending a historically women’s college was a top priority. I wanted a strong sense of community surrounded by like-minded individuals who would support my academic and personal growth. When I found Sweet Briar College, that desire for sisterhood and connection only deepened. With over 30 clubs and organizations on campus, I’ve been able to explore my passions, whether through singing, celebrating multiculturalism, or bonding with my class. Leadership is also an important part of our campus culture. I’ve had the opportunity to hold several roles here on campus, I’ve served as an orientation leader, President of the Multicultural Community’s Council, and I currently serve as Vice Chairwoman of Admissions. These experiences have helped me develop not only socially, but professionally. At Sweet Briar, you’re not just joining a college, you’re becoming part of a community that lifts you up, and helps you lead. At Sweet Briar, the career services staff helps students plan for life after college, from resume support to internship searches. I’ve interned with two nonprofits, one supporting BIPOC mothers through doula services, and another running a STEM camp for homeless families. These experiences have prepared me for my dream career in midwifery. Sweet Briar is more than a community. It’s a place for you to grow academically, socially, and personally. If you’re looking to lead, Sweet Briar will help you unlock that potential and become your fiercest self. That’s all for me. Back to the college host who knows the most, Alex.
– Sydnee, your journey highlights how Sweet Briar builds leaders who serve purposefully. From your amazing internships to your involvement in campus organizations, and your role in student government, you’ve genuinely shown what fierce leadership looks like. Thank you for sharing your story, we can’t wait to see where you lead next.
It’s time to meet Lola, a musical theater enthusiast-turned producer, choreographer, and songwriter. Sweet Briar’s intimate creative spaces helped her discover her voice on stage, and behind the scenes, all while forging lasting relationships with her fellow performers. Let’s hear how this artist found her spotlight and her confidence. Lola, take it away.
– Thanks for the intro, Alex, and hi, everyone. Ever since I was little, I knew I belonged on stage. I’d spent hours writing songs, and convincing my cousins to perform plays for our parents. As I got older, that passion grew. I performed in musical after musical, and really soaked up everything I could to grow as an artist. When I came to Sweet Briar, I wasn’t sure what my future would look like. I loved performing, but was nervous I wouldn’t find the same creative community I had back home. Thankfully, Sweet Briar’s small but passionate group of open-minded artists gave me the space to truly grow. I performed in amazing productions like “The Tempest”, “Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812”, and more. I even got to choreograph a show. It was a process that gave me real insight into what a future in the arts beyond college might hold. Sweet Briar’s small class sizes also mean that we work closely with our professors. Last semester, in the music studio, our class collaborated to produce one of my original songs, a hands-on creative process that taught us so much. Sweet Briar has helped me grow, not just as a performer, but as a true artist. Sweet Briar’s small classes create a close-knit, supportive community. Everyone looks out for one another and faculty members truly want us to succeed. When someone has a senior show, the whole community pitches in, sets, costumes, lighting, everything. It’s an amazing environment to grow your skills and discover who you are. Sweet Briar’s students and faculty truly cultivate authenticity, and because of that, I’ve grown into the person I wanna be. The support here has helped me gain confidence and clarity. Thanks to the skills I’ve learned, I now have the tools to pursue any career I set my mind to. Well, that’s it for me. What about you, Alex?
– Lola, your story proves that creativity thrives in the community here at Sweet Briar. From directing shows to producing original music, your growth reflects the kind of personal and artistic transformation this incredible school is known for. Bravo. We can’t wait to see what’s next for you. Thanks again.
Say hello to Audrey, an honor student balancing academics, equestrian life, and independent research. From studying the Virginia wine market to riding in national equestrian competitions, Audrey’s story shows how Sweet Briar students pursue excellence in so many ways, and that they always have support from professors, and proud alumni, every step of the way. Audrey, the floor is yours.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. Growing up, I loved learning, but I truly thought horses would be my whole life. I didn’t know that I could balance my passion for riding with academics, until I found this hidden gem. Sweet Briar offers a supportive space for women’s sports, while still emphasizing academic excellence and success. Sweet Briar takes academics seriously, and is one of the few colleges I found that offers merit-based scholarships. I also get to keep my horse on campus, and be part of a supportive team, all while excelling academically. Professors here work one-on-one with students, often serving as both instructors and advisors. They’re incredibly accessible and check in regularly. We’re also able to tap into the grant for engaged learning by the beginning of our sophomore year. This supports research projects, artistic endeavors, entrepreneurial activities, travel internships, and job shadowing. This allowed me to present my thesis at the Virginia Association of Economists’ Annual Conference. The honors program has been a highlight of my experience, allowing me to blend my two majors, Environmental Science and Economics into a unique area of study. I’m currently researching the Virginia wine market, which is especially fitting on our campus’s 18 acres of vineyards on over 2,800 acres of land. At Sweet Briar, academic support doesn’t end at graduation. Alumni are incredibly involved, offering mentorship, career guidance, and even personal check-ins. From authors to Olympians, engineers and state senators, our alumni network is powerful. Even President Mary Pope Hutson traveled to Florida to cheer on our equestrian team at nationals. Thanks to the support from Sweet Briar, I’ve built a resume full of hands-on, honors-level experience. My time here has truly prepared me for a future in the Virginia wine industry. Back to you, Alex.
– Audrey, combining your love for the environment and economics into a career path is truly what Sweet Briar’s all about. Your experience shows how far a supportive academic and alumni network can take you. We’re so inspired by your drive and love that you’re already thinking about giving back as an alum. Cheers to your bright future.
Let’s meet Bivushi, an international student from Nepal who is a future engineer. She built bridges literally and figuratively through Sweet Briar’s hands-on engineering program, and close-knit community. From cardboard boats to campus leadership, her story shows what happens when bold women build bold futures. Take it away, Bivushi.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. I’m from Pokhara, Nepal, a place known for a stunning Himalayan views, and vibrant culture. While searching for colleges, I wanted a strong engineering science program, and a supportive student community. Sweet Briar offered both, and that’s what made it feel like the perfect fit for me. Sweet Briar is more than just a college, it’s my home away from home. From day one, I was welcomed into a community, where women uplift and inspire each other. As a student leader, I have taken on roles like resident advisor, and serving student organizations. Whether I’m planning campus events, collaborating with peers, or just hanging out with friends, and do launch, I feel supported by a true sisterhood. Academically, Sweet Briars’s hands-on engineering program has completely transformed how I learn, with small class size, dedicated professors, and personalized mentorship, I’m never just a number, I’m part of a team. Our faculty are always there to guide us, whether we are tackling challenging projects, or exploring new opportunities. From designing a pinball machine to building a first place in design cardboard boat, every project has boosted my confidence, strengthened my problem-solving skills, and deepened my love for innovation. Sweet Briar has saved me in every way. What truly makes Sweet Briar special is the sisterhood and mentorship that save every step of the journey. Friendships here go beyond the classroom, they become lifelong bonds. From late night study sessions to supporting each other through every challenge, the encouragement and connection we share is something truly unmatched. Sweet Briar has given me more than education, it’s given me a family. Here, I have learned to be bold, to embrace challenges, and believe in myself. We engineer solutions, lift each other up, and create something greater together. No matter where I go, Sweet Briar will always be a part of me. Back to you. Alex.
– Bivushi, your journey from the majestic mountains of Nepal to the rolling hills of Sweet Briar, Virginia is a testament to the power of sisterhood, mentorship, and innovation. You’ve shown what it means to engineer solutions, and build a strong community. Keep dreaming big, we’re cheering you on each step of the way.
Let’s catch up with Annora, a creative force who self-designed a major in medieval studies. With one-on-one faculty mentorship and an incredible study abroad opportunity at Oxford, she’s showing how Sweet Briar students are truly able to customize their education. Are you curious about how karate and paleography go hand-in-hand? Well, we’re about to find out. You’re up, Annora.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, guys. I actually never imagined myself going to a women’s college, but during my college search, Sweet Briar stood out. The campus is absolutely beautiful, and the academic opportunities are incredible. It didn’t take long for me to realize that this is exactly where I’m meant to be, and I’m so glad that I’m here. A small school might not be your first thought when considering strong academic programs, and study abroad opportunities. Those were big factors for me during my college search, but when I toured Sweet Briar, everything changed. I spoke with one of the archeology professors, and that one conversation opened the door to a whole new path. She mentioned I could study medieval manuscripts, and even take karate as an elective. How could I say no? Since then, I’ve been able to study those medieval manuscripts firsthand, work closely with professors to learn niche skills, like medieval paleography, and even self-design and major in medieval studies, which will help me later on when I start applying to graduate schools. And thanks to a Sweet Briar program, I’ll be studying at Oxford this summer. Sweet Briar may be small, but it’s filled with big opportunities, and amazing personalized support that has made a huge impact. Thanks to the support of faculty and flexible academics, I was able to turn my newfound passion for medieval studies into my main field of study. Here, your passions don’t have to be side interests, because no matter what you love, you can turn it into a career at Sweet Briar. When I was searching for the right school, Sweet Briar stood out, not just because of its incredible opportunities, but because it felt like home, and I hope that you can find a place that feels just as right. Anyways, that’s enough for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Annora, what a fascinating blend of passion and possibility. Your ability to shape your own academic path at Sweet Briar proves how this college makes room for every interest, even medieval manuscripts, and martial arts. We’re wishing you all the best at Oxford, and in your career.
Okay, let’s meet Paola, a senior biology major with minors in chemistry and creative writing. Paola’s story showcases Sweet Briar’s mix of academic rigor and leadership opportunities, from lab research and cosmetics internships, to chairing student admissions. Get ready to explore how curiosity and confidence flourish in the Pink Bubble. Take it away. Paola.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. From the moment I arrived at Sweet Briar, I knew I found something special. This isn’t just a college, it’s a tight-knit community that we call the Pink Bubble. More importantly, it’s where I’ve grown to become a future leader, cosmetic chemist, and researcher. One of the things I love most about Sweet Briar is the hands-on learning experience. I’ve had incredible opportunities to explore my passions through research and internships. Last year, I completed a literature review on paraphenylenediamine in hair products, and UV light sensitivity, presenting at the American Chemical Society’s Virginia Conference, and a University of Virginia Undergraduate Research Poster Presentation. Now I’m diving into lab research, cooking up something sensational. This past summer, I got the chance to intern at Blue Bonnet Nutrition, where I trained in quality control and microbiology. I learned industry techniques, like TLC analysis, HPLC, and gram staining, which deepened my passion for scientific work. Outside the lab, I serve as a Chairwoman of Admissions, which has helped me grow as a leader. I mentor and train 20 student ambassadors, lead tours, and support major admissions events. The best part? Faculty mentorship. I have been guided every step of the way from research to career planning. Sweet Briar isn’t just about academics. It’s about meaningful connections, from collaborating with faculty, to learning alongside inspiring peers. I’ve always felt supported. The Pink Bubble isn’t just a nickname. It’s a mindset that fosters confidence, creativity, and leadership in every part of campus life. I feel more than ready to take the next steps into my career, pursuing a Master’s in cosmetic science with a focus in skincare and fragrance formulation. Sweet Briar has given me the confidence to turn my passions into a career and leave my mark. Keep leading like fiercely, vixens, that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Paola, your journey from research to leadership perfectly captures Sweet Briar students’ fierce and curious spirit. Your confidence, creativity, and commitment to science are an inspiration, proof that mentorship here makes a world of difference. Best of luck in cosmetic science, we all know, you’ll do amazing things.