We are now going to introduce you to Hannah, a senior majoring in biology and chemistry. Like many other students at Lamar, Hannah has a passion for STEM, also known as Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, and she’s gonna talk to us a bit about Lamar’s commitment to the STEM learning environment. Hannah, take it away.
Hello, Alex and welcome everyone to Lamar University, I always wanted to be a doctor and that meant completing a quality undergraduate STEM program. Growing up locally and having parents that graduated from Lamar University, I am confident in the education that I’m receiving here. As a presidential scholar and member of the Rio Honors College, I began my education with a built in support system of peer and faculty mentors who encouraged interactions among individuals with diverse backgrounds. I’ve combined my dedication to academic excellence, community involvement, and organizational leadership to create a productive college experience. Whether participating in projects, benefiting those in need or promoting Lamar University’s Women in STEM organization as a founding member, opportunities always arise for personal growth and development. I spent a lot of my time in Lamar’s 83,000 square foot science and technology building. It supports classroom instruction, university research projects and undergraduate STEM programs, encouraging collaboration and cutting edge operations amongst professors and students. The maker space area provides hands-on learning, allowing the production of product prototypes. On a personal note, I love the study rooms located here and I use them regularly. Lamar University is dedicated to all things STEM and remains one of the top producers of high-achieving graduates from these assorted fields. From providing current students with influential internships to supporting diversity and minority involvement in STEM fields and to offering STEM summer outreach programs to the public, Lamar University’s effect on our surrounding community and world is far reaching. Starting college is an exciting yet uncertain time for everybody. I found that Lamar University felt more like home than school. As I move forward to medical school upon graduation, I am certain that Lamar University’s undergraduate program has prepared me with a strong foundation on which to grow. Thanks for stopping by, Alex, back to you.
Thanks so much for sharing your experience with us, Hannah, I can’t believe how many options there are for students that are interested in the STEM field. It sounds like you have taken full advantage of the college experience and that is what it’s all about. Thanks again, Hannah.
Okay, now we have Alexis, a senior majoring in Communication Broadcasting. She’s gonna tell us about the thriving academic programs here at Lamar and how it has transformed her future. Let’s hear it, Alexis.
Thank you for that wonderful introduction, Alex. Now let’s fly into my college journey. During my senior year of high school, I toured different colleges and universities but there was only one that felt like home, Lamar University. That’s when I knew I wanted to be a cardinal. Since attending Lamar University, I’ve made connections with city officials, met industry leaders, and worked with media professionals. I have been to conferences and workshops in Las Vegas, Baltimore, and New York. None of this would’ve been possible without being a part of a university that is affordable and accessible to a diverse student population. Lamar University has presented me with many academic opportunities to make the most of my time. I serve as the vice president of the Lambda Pi Eta Honor society, participate in Lamar University’s television station, LUTV, as a multimedia journalist and intern for the Department of Communication and Media. I also earned a spot on the Dean’s list multiple times throughout my college career. Being involved in so many things I’ve learned to make the most of my time and use the resources Lamar University offers like money management, which helped increase my financial knowledge and also allowed me to make informed financial decisions. One of the biggest blessings from this university was being selected for the Lamar Promise program which students are eligible for based on certain criteria. When I got the call that I was selected for this program, I was thrilled. Because of this, I will graduate debt free. After graduating, I plan to spread my wings and work in the communication field showing the world all that I have learned. The moments at Lamar University has made my college career unforgettable. That’s it for my time. Back to you, Alex.
Wow, Alexis, it is amazing learning how you are able to pursue your passion through the College of Fine Arts and Communications and being selected for the Lamar Promise program, there really are no limits to what you can do right here at Lamar, thanks, Alexis.
It’s time to meet a southeast Texas native. Emily is a freshman at Lamar, majoring in history with the hopes of becoming a teacher. She is excited to talk to us about the amazing experience she has had living on campus and how it has made a positive impact on her overall college experience. Let’s go Emily.
Thank you, Alex. What’s up everyone? As a kid, I always talked about becoming a teacher like it was a certainty in my future and now I’m making my younger self proud by following my dreams here at Lamar University. Being able to live on campus I’ve gotten to experience college life closer than ever by living in one of the residents halls in Cardinal Village. By attending several events led by the resident assistants who live in my hall, I’ve gotten closer to my roommate and my neighbors. Living on campus, I often eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Brook Shivers dining hall. The dining hall has become a place for me to hang out with friends or have family dinner with my brothers who also attend Lamar University. You definitely get the full college experience with places like Starbucks, Smoothie King and everyone’s favorite, Chick-fil-A. The resident halls feel like a second home to me. The communal rooms are so cozy and we even get our own bathroom to share with our roommate. Getting to sleep in my own bedroom has been amazing as well. Along with the events hosted by the Cardinal Village residence halls, we also have our own pool so you can cool down in these high Texas temperatures. Being able to live at Lamar has brought me so close to life on campus and I’ve been really enjoying all the dining options that are here as well. It allows me to stay connected with friends and really enjoy my time here at the residence halls. Well, that’s all I’ve got, back to you, Alex.
Awesome job, Emily, you’re a great ambassador for campus life. I love that there’s such an at home atmosphere here at Lamar and your dorm room was rocking. Thanks again, Emily, for sharing your space with us.
Okay everyone, it’s time to meet a Houstonian turned southeast Texan. Jay is a music major from Houston. He’s excited to talk to us about the amazing experience being a transfer student and all the resources Lamar can offer, making that process easy peasy, lemon squeezy. Let’s go Jay.
Thanks Alex. Hi everyone. My journey to becoming a Cardinal was a little non-traditional. I initially started college at a school in Louisiana but I decided to transfer because I wanted a school that showcased the passion for fine arts and had a diverse student population. I chose Lamar because it was not too close to home and also not too far away. When I transferred to Lamar, I applied the conventional way and it was a seamless and easy transition throughout. I was able to schedule a tour through the welcome center where an LU crew member was able to show me resources across campus like the financial aid office, the undergraduate advising center, and everyone’s favorite, the Setzer student center. Being a transfer student can sometimes make you feel like an outsider, but everyone at Lamar University has been kind and welcoming which makes it easy to make new friends. One thing that helped ease the transition was getting involved on campus, like joining marching band also known as the Showcase of Southeast Texas. One thing I’ve realized about college is that the connections you make can take you very far in life and I’m very fortunate that I have met some great people here within the past few years. It also never hurts to go up to someone and say hi. You never know where it may lead. Being a transfer student wasn’t originally part of my big plan, but it has since become the best decision I could have made. My time at Lamar has been an experience of a lifetime. I have made so many friends and connections that will last me forever. In the meantime, back to you Alex.
Awesome job Jay, you’re a great ambassador for Lamar. I love that Lamar University is working to recruit and retain more great students like you and I can’t wait to come back and visit and see all that you have accomplished. That was excellent.
Okay, everyone, let’s head over to meet up with Allaina. Allaina is a senior from Houston majoring in industrial engineering. Allaina can’t wait to tell us about Lamar University’s connection to the local community and it’s rich history. Allaina, we have questions and you have answers. Please take it away.
Thank you so much, Alex. When I was a senior in high school, I wasn’t sure where I wanted to attend college but I knew I wanted to be an engineer and continue my dance career somewhere that felt like home. Lamar University in the southeast Texas community is what makes my experience here so special. This campus is truly a boom town of knowledge. Lamar has given me so many opportunities from three years on the dance team, working as a campus tour guide and studying industrial engineering, there is so much to be celebrated at Lamar University. The tight-knit community of friends, mentors, and professors is built on a long-standing tradition of excellence and collaborative partnerships. Lamar University has proudly served the southeast Texas community now for 100 years. Beaumont earned its place on the map in 1901 when the Lucas Oil gusher struck one of the largest underground sources of oil in the US at the time. As Beaumont grew into a bustling community of families, education became a strong priority. In 1923, South Park Junior College was established. Over the years, the college transformed from Lamar College to Lamar State College of Technology, focusing on engineering and science. Its growth and reputation have continued hand in hand with numerous campus expansion and a flourishing, pride filled student base. Uniquely positioned in the energy quarter of Texas, LU excels in educating future engineers, business owners, teachers, performers, and researchers just like myself. I’m so thankful I will be graduating from Lamar University with not only a bachelor’s degree but with excellence. I have gained so much experience here where once they were producing oil and now we are producing graduates to sustain and flourish throughout our communities. Back to you, Alex.
Allaina, that was awesome. It’s so fun to hear about the collaborative environment that truly allows students to create lasting friendships and relationships with one another. Fostering these connections across the community really allows Lamar students to have an immersive campus experience. Thanks so much, Allaina.
I’m happy to introduce Dr. Justin Turner, Mississippi’s chief medical officer and a proud alumnus of Jackson State University. Dr. Turner majored in biology and credits Thee I Love for preparing him for a life of service and leadership to his community, his alma mater, and the world. Take it away, Dr. Turner.
Thank you, Desi. I didn’t choose Jackson State University. Jackson State University chose me. When I visited campus for the first time, it absolutely blew my mind. Leaving your parents, you really are preparing for what I think are the most pivotal four years of life. The electricity, the energy, the engagement from the president, faculty, staff, and other students, it really made me feel like I was at home away from home. I was able to be a nerd not knowing I’ll be surrounded by future doctors, engineers, and entrepreneurs. Jackson State provided the foundation, not just for my quest as a physician but as a man. I knew this was an ideal place to pursue my dream of becoming a medical doctor. Upon graduation, I attended Meharry Medical College and later started my own medical practice to help in health disparities among minority communities. During the pandemic, my mindset was this is the purpose driven life I’ve been preparing for my whole life. Our community is being disproportionately impacted and it will be a disservice to my ancestors to not use the gift that God gave me to help save as many as we can. People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. You should choose Jackson State because the culture prepares you for adulthood. JSU make sure you are well-rounded in all facets of life. It’s such a special place that not only do I try to come back and speak as often as I can, I’ve also created a scholarship to support aspiring students desiring to go to medical school. When I found Jackson State University, I found Justin Turner. Now, I’m thrilled to help the next generation find themselves at Jackson State, too. That’s my story. Back to you, Desi.
Wow. Dr. Turner is a great example of how Jackson State’s pre-medical programs prepare students for successful careers in medicine, dentistry, optometry, veterinary medicine, and biomedical science research. We’re grateful to Dr. Turner and all alumni who give back to JSU in the form of student scholarships. Thank you.
While many students can’t wait to get away from home by going to college, let’s meet a student who actually couldn’t wait to stay in town. Elizabeth is a sophomore journalism and media studies major from right here in Jackson, Mississippi. She’s going to share why choosing her hometown university was the gift of a lifetime. The floor is yours, Elizabeth.
Thanks so much, Desi. As a Jackson native, my family always took me to Jackson State University events growing up. As a matter of fact, my first JSU audi was a JSU football game, which explains where I got my passion for sports. I instantly fell in love with all things JSU which made me think to myself, “Why not attend a school in my hometown where I was born and raised and leave a legacy?” Almost everyone in my family attended here. I saw JSU’s impact on their lives through their professional accomplishments. I was immediately join the JSU’s rich history and everything that it had to offer. I’ve always felt welcome here. The best decision that I’ve made was to attend Jackson State University to major in journalism and media studies with the concentration in sports media. I absolutely love the way that Jackson State is shifting the culture. I am so blessed to be able to work with this amazing team as an equipment manager, where we maintain, order, and inventory athletic equipment and apparel, as well as help with practices and games. While working with this amazing football team, I have been afforded the opportunity to work with their sports media with multiple NFL teams, as well as a major sports network which has further enhanced my desire to pursue a career in sports. I am so glad that I decided to pursue my higher education here locally at Jackson State University where students can make their dreams a reality. Now, I am on the path to becoming an NFL sports reporter. So choose JSU and be legendary. That’s my story. Back to you, Desi.
You picked a great time to be a part of Jackson State Athletics. The football team had a record breaking season, the soccer team was crowned the 2022 SWAC Champions, and more athletic milestones will soon follow. We look forward to watching JSU Athletics continue to build on traditions and blaze new trails with these incredible student athletes. Thanks again.
The JSU community extends beyond the country, boasting students from all around the world. Audrika is a first year graduate student from Dhaka, Bangladesh majoring in geotech and environmental engineering. With a global vision, JSU’s international students play a significant role in internationalizing the state’s only urban research university. Tell us more, Audrika.
Thanks, Desi. I’m an international student from Bangladesh and I came here to pursue my dream to specialize in geotechnical and environmental engineering. Graduating from the best engineering university of my country, I want to apply my knowledge to solve real life problems. And that’s when I chose Jackson State, a university that provides its students freedom to explore new ideas. I instantly fell in love with JSU’s lab facilities and instruments which is a key inspiration for my academic growth. I was fortunate to participate and learn from the SWANA Conference as a member of my research group. I also got the chance to collaborate with ASCE, the engineering society for civil engineers. Being a part of Dr. Sadik Khan’s research group, investigating field problems and coming up with solutions to discussion has helped me enrich my knowledge a lot. The friendly and discussion-based coursework at JSU helps you prepare perfectly for facing your future with confidence and knowledge. My favorite event to date was Homecoming. The week-long festivities included a homecoming concert, rave party, family cookout parade, food truck Friday, and most amazingly, the Homecoming Game. The Music Department, home to the Sonic Boom of the South, is filled with amazing musicians. But what mesmerized me the most is that JSU provides a lifestyle with fast knowledge of cultural diversities. Here at JSU, I can say I’m living my dream right now. Apart from my academic interest, JSU is the epitome for international students to socialize with different cultures and nations. JSU has made me feel at home. The greeneries of the city encourages me to be an environmentalist so that I can contribute to the welfare of the society as I grow like a tiger. Now, that was my story. Let’s take it over, Desi.
Audrika, it does sound like you’re embracing that freedom to explore new ideas and live your dream. From researching and investigating field problems to coming up with resolutions with your peers, JSU is offering you the experiences necessary to fulfill your professional goal. Best wishes on your journey.
Here to share his secrets on work-life balance is Donovan, a junior biology pre-med major from Jackson, Mississippi who is actively involved in campus life. Many students wonder how can they balance the rigor of college classes and still enjoy college? He’s got a message we think you’ll flip for. Take it away, Donova
Thanks, Desi. Hi, everyone. Attending Jackson State University has been a family tradition dating back to the 80s. It was my school of choice since I was five-years-old. I’ve always had a fascination with the makeup of the human body, so I decided to major in biology pre-medicine and follow my dreams to become a forensic biologist. Jackson State is filled with amazing opportunities like the partnership with the University of Mississippi Medical Center. As a STEM major, you could also join clubs like the TRIO STEM program and the Aristocrats. I’m also a member of the JSU Cheer Team. Although I didn’t have any prior experience, I auditioned and joined cheer during my freshman year. Cheer keeps me active and involved with my university community. I learned early on serving in multiple organizations that time management is very important. Prioritizing assignments, club meetings, and keeping a schedule of cheer practices help me stay balanced. It is important for me to do both biology and cheer because I like to inspire people through performance and still remain focused on my goal in becoming a college graduate. Although Jackson is my hometown, I decided to stay on campus because it has a lot of advantages like not having to find parking, being able to attend school functions, and most importantly, catching those legendary hotspots where hundreds of students gathered to fellowship. On campus I can enjoy hanging out with friends at the student center and dancing in my free time. I can comfortably say that I met lifelong friends through band, cheer, and the general student body. It was important for me to pursue my education at a HBCU where I feel appreciated, and I don’t regret any of it. Back to you, Desi. Go, Tigers.
Donovan, your energy and work ethic are amazing. If you can wake up for early morning biology labs and still have energy for cheer practice late at night, there’s no telling what other students can accomplish if they put their minds to it. Thanks, Donovan.
Here to share her campus involvement story is Laila, a junior biology pre-medicine major from New Orleans, Louisiana. JSU students are encouraged to hone their leadership skills by getting involved. The floor is all yours, Laila.
Thank you for that introduction, Desi. Growing up in New Orleans, I always knew I wanted to attend Jackson State University because my father, uncle, sister, and cousins all graduated From here. As a little girl, I went to football games with my dad and attended alumni chapter meetings. I am so honored to be a student contributing to my generational legacy. The best way to make connections in college is to get involved. Participating in Royal Court or getting active in the Student Government Association introduces you to different people. During my freshman year, I ran for Miss Freshman and I won. This was during the height of the COVID Pandemic and many of my classmates studied remotely. I used social media to host virtual events that align with my platform. My sophomore year, I served as the sophomore class president where I worked with the entire council to execute events for our class. Greek life is another beneficial way to get involved. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, I’m surrounded by like-minded women who believe in the importance of public service. Joining a fraternity or a sorority creates opportunities for you to network and engage in community service and to develop an extended family of brothers and sisters everywhere you go. There’s a great camaraderie Within JSU’s National Pan-Hellenic Council. We wear different colors and have different Greek letter symbols, but we all share the same ultimate goal, which is to serve. After obtaining my degree in biology pre-medicine, I plan to attend a medical school where I will pursue my dream career of becoming a pediatrician. I will use my training to impact the world by helping children in impoverished areas, most likely in my hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. I want to show diversity in the medical field, not only as an African American, but as a woman. That’s my story. Back to you, Desi.
Laila, it sounds like you are making the most of your college experience. From Miss Freshman to sophomore class president, and now you’re a member of JSU’s Pan-Hellenic Council. You have mastered the art of networking and being of service while having fun. We look forward to calling you Dr. Woodfork one day.