Students come from all over the world to attend Landmark College, like Gabby, who originally came to Landmark from Perth, Australia. Gabby is a junior, majoring in life science, and she’s gonna tell us how her work as a campus ambassador has shown her why Landmark is known globally as a destination for students who learn differently.
– Hello and thanks, Alex. I’ve lived internationally my whole life in places such as London, Scotland, and Australia. I always knew I wanted to attend college in America but when looking at larger colleges, I was intimidated and worried I would be lost in the system. I always dreaded school, but when I found Landmark College, my academic concerns and anxieties were addressed and brought forward. I was always interested in working with people and learning a topic that is visual and a hands-on learning style, which led me to the love of human biology. At Landmark, I was earning my associate in life sciences and then transferred to nursing school. But I realized that wasn’t right for me. So I return to Landmark, a place I know and feel known by my friends, my professors, and my advisors. Being Campus Ambassador gives me the opportunity to meet prospective families and students from all over the world. Working with the Office of Admissions, I give tours to show all Landmark College has to offer and what campus life is like. People travel from all over the United States to come to Landmark, even from all over the world like me. We often sit on student panels at events like open houses and Accepted Student’s Day. We love sharing our personal stories of living with learning differences and how we’ve made it to college. Once I graduate with a bachelor’s in life sciences, I want a career that allows me to work closely with people to continue to grow and develop who I am as a learner and as an individual, just like Landmark College has taught me to. Have a banner day, Alex.
– Thank you, Gabby. Your role as a Campus Ambassador gives others a shining example of the warm and friendly faces they’ll encounter here on campus. Now, for those who prefer remote learning options LC Online offers a range of programs, including high school dual enrollment, College START, and online associate degrees.
Let’s meet Nailah, a sophomore from Queens, New York, currently studying for an associate degree in liberal studies, with an eye toward business. Nailah unexpectedly, but pleasantly, discovered a world of diversity and difference in the mountains of Vermont when she came to Landmark, where she helped shape programming at the Centers for Diversity and Inclusion. Tell us more, Nailah.
– Thanks so much, Alex. Hey, guys. I came to Landmark College because I wanted to give myself a chance to accept help from people who work with and understand students with ADHD and dyslexia just like me. Coming from a huge diverse city, I’ll admit I was scared of attending a rural campus. I wasn’t sure if I was going to like being in the middle of the woods. More importantly, I wasn’t sure if I was going to meet people who looked like me. Right after I was accepted, I connected with the director for the Center for Diversity and Inclusion and a couple of other students of color. We felt immediately welcomed. I just thought this guy made me feel not so scared to attend. I knew that I had somebody in my corner. I now work for the Center for Diversity and Inclusion, which includes the Rise Up Center, the Center for Women and Gender, the Stonewall Center, and the Pa’lante Center. I help create programming and I’m being mentored by an alumni who was also in my shoes. I hope to become a mentor myself in the future. I’m also involved with Voices TV, our student run TV station. I do a segment called Geek News, which is about science, tech, pop culture, and fun facts. And I love working behind the scenes as a technical director editing videos and posting to our social media channels. The faculty here are on your side and they’ll support you in your academic goals. It’s okay to put yourself out there and get involved, even if you’re scared. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks for your inspiring story, Nailah. The business world will benefit from your leadership, spirit of creativity, and attitude of inclusiveness. Speaking of business, another unique offering here is LEAP. The Landmark Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program, which empowers students to harness their creativity and make their career aspirations reality.
Okay, everyone, let’s meet Gus, a student athlete from Westport, Connecticut, majoring in Communication and Entrepreneurial Leadership. Landmark has a range of competitive athletic teams, intramurals and recreational activities, cheered on by the college mascot, Finn the Shark. Gus is here to tell us how Landmark offers neurodiverse students of all athletic abilities a chance to play hard and have fun.
– Thanks, Alex. I came to Landmark College after nearly failing out of another college after being there for two years. I knew that I had non-verbal learning disorder, but I didn’t quite understand how that impacted my learning. I was in a really bad mental state and then my mom told me about Landmark College. I read about an alumnus who went to Landmark, then played baseball professionally and now he’s back as our baseball coach. Baseball has always been a huge outlet for me, and I saw Landmark as a place where I could get a college education but also revive my baseball career and see how far I can take it. Sports and recreation is a big part of campus life at Landmark College. Baseball, softball, soccer, men’s and women’s basketball, and cross-country athletics teams, plus a lot of intramural sports and activities. We even have a competitive eSports team. At Landmark College, anybody who wants to try out for a sports team gets to play. I like that, because a lot of us who are neurodiverse don’t get many chances to show the world what we’re talented at. For some students this might be the only time they’ll play collegiate sports, while others might go on to play somewhere else. I also love being a communications and entrepreneurial leadership major. The whole purpose is to go out and make change as a leader. I’m not great at sitting in class, but I am good at talking to people. Landmark College helps students like me hone our skills into something productive and meaningful. Everyone has their own unique experiences prior to coming to Landmark College. The more you get yourself involved in a team or a club, the more that you feel like you belong. Putting myself out there on day one was the best thing I could have done. Back to you, Alex.
– Nice pitch, Gus, thank you for showing us some of landmark’s beautiful facilities like Charles Drake Field and the Click Family Sports Center, and sharing how athletics and recreation are an integral part of the full college experience at Landmark. Here you can show your team spirit and get your game on, go Sharks.
Ivan is here to tell us about the great outdoors surrounding Landmark College’s campus in Putney, Vermont. A freshman from Los Alamos, New Mexico who is majoring in life science, Ivan finds his love of nature not only enhances his scientific pursuits, but also energizes and motivates him as he works to overcome his attention related challenges. Take it away, Ivan.
– Thanks, Alex. Growing up I always knew I had challenges, but education was always important to my family so I knew I had attend college, regardless. When I found Landmark College, I was willing to travel all the way from New Mexico to Vermont because I knew this was the place I could succeed as a college student. The beautiful surroundings of Landmark’s 125-acre campus in southern Vermont nourishes my love of the outdoors. Of course, Landmark has helped me focus on my academic weaknesses with tremendous support for my executive functions issues through the Drake Center and support staff. But I’ve also been able to build a social life and indulge my love of trail hiking and other outdoor activities. If you want to be immersed in nature there’s no better place than our campus. There’s a ropes course that offers students a super fun physical challenge and a zip line. The college also runs rafting trips during summer sessions as well as excursions for paintball and other activities. If you’re looking for winter sports, how can you beat skiing and snowboarding in Vermont? Landmark offers a variety of indoor activities and sports that I’ve also found to be fun and fulfilling, like working out in one of the two gyms on campus and shooting hoops in the Click Center. When I leave Landmark College, I’ll leave with more than just a degree and skills to manage neurodiversity. I’ll leave as a mature and educated person, ready to face all the world has to offer. Before I leave, Alex, how about a taste of Vermont with some real maple syrup?
– Sweet! Breakfast is always better with Vermont maple syrup. And thank you, Ivan, for showing us that Landmark is a college for all seasons, surrounded by natural beauty at all times of the year. The campus greenhouse and surrounding forests and brooks offer ample study opportunities, too, love it.
Let’s hear how Landmark College has evolved since its founding in 1985 into a baccalaureate degree granting institution for students with a broad range of learning differences. Yar, a senior from Queens, New York, started in the associate degree program and returned to Landmark years later as a non-traditional student when the Bachelor of Life Science was introduced. Greetings, Yar.
– Thanks for the great introduction, Alex. What’s hippity-happening? When I was very young, my mom showed me and my sister the volcano science experiment, and from there my interest in science took root. Going through the general sciences, I found that biology is where I thrive. Landmark was once known as a transitional college where students came to gain the skills they needed to earn a bachelor’s degree elsewhere. Now they offer a whole range of bachelor’s and associates degree options. Psychology, communication and entrepreneurial leadership, business, computer science, integrated arts, liberal studies, as well as life science and online programs. My life science major covers a variety of interests and it’s where my passion is. I’ve been able to make friends outside of my biology concentration, getting to know ecologists and chemists as well. My friends and I formed our own independent study groups and we genuinely enjoy each other’s company. There’s so much to do on campus, too. The campus activity board holds events throughout the semester, including a spring fling and a fall fest. There are always campus events to choose from; whether they’re indoors, like board games and mindfulness, or outdoors like evening bonfires, along with other programs that are arranged by resident assistants in each of our residence halls, which are open to all students. At any of these, you’re likely to meet our mascot, Finn. Before Landmark, I didn’t know what it truly meant for my teachers to be supportive and accessible. The recognition of everyone’s individual skills and assistance in overcoming challenges made it easier for me to advocate for myself. We’re able to ask for help without judgment, and that’s made it easy for me to self-advocate and to bring that into my experiences outside Landmark. Shall we turn it over to Alex, Finn? Back to you, Alex.
– That was fin-tastic, Yar. We’re so glad you persistently sought out Landmark College as you pursue your lifelong passion for science. And you have shown how Landmark has grown to offer a full college experience for students just like you as they discover their learning ability.
Let’s meet Jalen, a junior from West Palm Beach, Florida, majoring in integrated arts. Jalen is here to tell us how Landmark College offers unrivaled academic support, social pragmatic services, and vibrant residential life to ensure that every student knows they belong from day one. When every student has a diagnosed LD, no one is out of place. Welcome, Jalen.
– Thanks, Alex. Ever since I was a little kid I have always dreamed about attending college. When I found Landmark I knew I could be a successful, smart, and engaging college student. Landmark is the college for students that learn differently. When I first came to Landmark I was feeling nervous, homesick, and anxious. Once I met a few students and professors I knew it would be a great experience. I’ve made awesome friends here. I love how Landmark has opportunities and supports for students who feel alone and homesick. The Social Pragmatics Office has mentors who help students make new friends and build their social skills. We also have a team of therapy dogs that students can visit and make appointments with, like Gadoo here. The faculty and advisors here at Landmark are so helpful, understanding, and supportive when it comes to picking classes and assisting students with executive function skills like time management and organization. You can always get help with assignments at the Drake Center, too. Landmark has a lot of fun clubs and activities to choose from. One of my favorite places on campus is the game room in the student center. I love playing billiards there. Sometimes we even have billiard tournaments. I also joined intermural teams and have done sports and activities like bowling, basketball, and volleyball. My favorite activity is Voices TV where students do news segments and talk about what’s happening on campus. Landmark is a perfect place for people who have a learning difference. I always have a positive energy when walking into class seeing my friends, and doing fun activities here, on campus and off campus. That’s all Gadoo and I have for you guys. Alex, over to you.
– Thanks to you and Gadoo for your dogged determination, Jalen. Landmark is truly a place to call home, with a model built on the principles of universal design. Landmark’s signature first year course, Perspectives in Learning, encourages students to research their LD, leverage their strengths, and advocate for the support they need. That was fantastic.
Okay, let’s hear from Troy, a senior marketing major who found his way to UTD from Las Vegas, Nevada. Being in the DFW Metroplex offers students the opportunity to intern at major companies while still enrolled in classes. This kind of opportunity provides real world experience before they graduate and can connect students with the global environment Richardson and the surrounding area has to offer. Tell us more, Troy!
– You’re the man, Alex. What’s up, y’all? When I decided to leave Las Vegas, I wanted to go to a university where I could develop a strong network, gain firsthand work experience, and just enjoy myself all the while. UTD and the surrounding metroplex have all this to offer and then some, making my decision to come to Dallas incredibly easy. UTD prioritizes and promotes career readiness amongst its student body, so much so that over 4,000 Comets earn internships every year. In fact, all business students at the Naveen Jindal School of Management are required to get an internship before graduation. Upon joining UTD I took advantage of the career center’s workshops and joint programs, like UTD sales. Such efforts put me in contact with high-end tech companies, like AT&T and Adobe, both of which I’ve earned internships at during my time here. These positions also gave me the chance to explore the Dallas area and the vast experiences it has to offer. Clyde Warren Park and the nearby Dallas Arts District always leave me speechless. These downtown areas encapsulate the vast variety of entertainment, food, and attractions DFW offers. My personal favorite memory here is definitely the Texas State Fair, as its culinary cuisine is abundant and the good times are endless. UTDs culture inspired me to join career-oriented organizations and make myself more professionally developed. This is evident and reflected in my time in organizations such as the Student Ambassador Program, the JSOM Dean’s Council, and even the UTD Theater Department. Thanks to UT Dallas, I have several essential work skills, a worthwhile career ahead of me, and a clear vision for my future. In a years time, I’ll obtain my master’s degree and begin work feeling as prepared as ever. UTD students have the chance of a lifetime in this university and in this global city. Thanks for listening. Take it back now, Alex.
– Troy, thank you for sharing how your internship experiences helped you learn about your future career and the Dallas area. It’s so nice to know you can be connected to such a variety of experiences, just a short drive from campus and that that career management center has been such an amazing resource. Thank you so much.
Okay, this is gonna be great. We’re now gonna hear from Anahi, a senior psychology major, UTD cheerleader, and first generation college student. After transferring from another university, Anahi knew she wanted to get up to speed as quickly as possible. She wasted no time in becoming 100% Comet, weaving herself into the fabric of the university with a heavy dose of whoosh. You’re up, Anahi!
– C-O-M-E-T-S! When I was applying to colleges, I didn’t even know where to begin, but I new one thing, I wanted to stay close to home. At first, I thought my previous university was a right choice until I stepped foot onto UTD campus. UT Dallas has a very welcoming campus as well as many resources to help guide you through your years at UTD. There are various programs like Road Warriors, Comet Connection, the Transfer Mentor program, and the First Generation Program. There are many opportunities and scholarships for being a transfer or a first generation student. UTD cheer has also given me many opportunities like competing for national championship title at NCA Collegiate Nationals in Daytona Beach, Florida. From practicing for nationals to cheering at our sporting events to elevating school spirit on campus, we’re always cheering. Because of these three amazing programs here at UT Dallas, I’ve been able to meet some of my best friends and make some amazing memories. Here at UT Dallas, there’s several ways to get to and around campus. We have Comic Cruiser, Dart, and Comet Cabs. There are plenty of lounge areas for when you’re in between classes, locker rentals, and dining areas. With all these amazing resources, I have met so many people who’ve helped me along the way. As a first generation college student, I’m thankful to have the Transfer and First Generation Program, as well as the UTD Spirit Program, guiding me towards graduation, cheering in college, and making my parents proud. Back to you, Alex.
– Anahi, Your story as a transfer student who took advantage of new opportunities is wonderful and so uplifting. We’ve learned that UTD prides itself on attracting strong transfer students each year, and you’re a great example for others looking for a new school. Thank you, Anahi.
Let’s hear from Rohan, an accounting junior who grew up only 20 minutes from UTD. Rohan was looking for a college experience that would answer his biggest question, where can I get a great education and also participate in collegiate athletics? The answer was at a campus with a nationally ranked school of business and NCAA division three sports. Rowan, what do you got?
– Hi, everyone. I grew up 20 minutes away from UT Dallas. I never really thought about it much, but when I learned about all the amazing academic and athletic opportunities the school had to offer, I knew it was the place for me. As a student athlete, I’m able to participate in the classroom and in the two sports I love, cross country and track and field. Our athletics program is NCAA division three, which means athletic scholarships aren’t offered. However, it does mean that I’m able to allocate more time to studying since the time requirements are less strict than NCAA division one or two. Nonetheless, being a student athlete means I have to balance going to classes and studying with going to practices and competing. However, the university and athletics program offers the support I need to do both successfully. On campus there are many home games to go to, all hosted by our athletics program. Throughout the week you can find many home games including basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball, tennis, and soccer. To me, school pride means going to these sporting events because I can support my fellow student athletes. A huge bonus of going to these home games is that you have the chance to see our beloved mascot, Temoc the Comet. At UT Dallas, we have a history of using backwards naming conventions, so Temoc is simply comet, our mascot, spelled backwards. If you’re looking for a university that allows you to pursue a rigorous education and play a competitive sport, then UT Dallas is the right school for you. Well, that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Rohan, thank you for sharing how your interest in sports led you to UTD. You and your fellow student athletes value earning a degree from a prestigious academic institution while getting a chance to compete for NCAA championships. Thank you, Rohan, and congratulations on making the Academic All Conference team. That’s amazing. Thanks again!
Let’s say hello to Maria, a junior neuroscience major who is transformed by living on campus. Maria says she began college with uncertainty venturing into this next chapter. At UTD, she found a welcoming campus that quickly put her fears at ease. Living learning communities inside freshman residence halls, peer advisors, and cultural diversity, made all the difference. Maria, go for it!
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. When I started my first semester at UTD, I was terrified of what it meant to move outta home and begin a new phase in my life. I was overwhelmed by the idea of living by myself and juggling new freedoms and responsibilities. Surprisingly, I would come to learn that living on campus was an integral part of my college experience. I took a leap of faith and soon I was planning my own meals, balancing my schedule with commitments and academic responsibilities, exploring different organizations and extracurricular opportunities, and building friendships in my residential community. I found a home in UTD and I was able to explore campus and immerse myself in the resources that UTD has to offer to enhance my freshman experience. I tried out new things, made diverse friendships, and challenged my boundaries. UTD housing brings residents together by building a supportive and comfortable community. UTD offers recreational facilities and a diverse range of group fitness programs for students. Freshmen are encouraged to build community through fun events that are centered around resident education. UTD dining provides residents with quality and affordable meals that incorporate different dietary needs and cultural backgrounds. Residential life also builds the framework to enhance the students’ growth by establishing the leadership role of peer advisors in our community. As a peer advisor myself, I act as a peer that residents can see eye to eye with. Peer advisors build relationships with their residents and create opportunities for residents to be more engaged in campus and community events. Life at UTD has been an amazing experience for me as a student, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the college experience. This place has launched me into a new phase of my life, and I know UTD can be a home to you too. Back to you, Alex.
– Maria, thank you for sharing how the UTD residential community helped you find your independence and leadership skills. No doubt these attributes will set you up for success after graduation. And it’s a great example of how success for one Comet can help Comets all around.