Now we’re gonna hear from Citlally, a biology major from Las Vegas. She’s gonna tell us about UNLV’s commitment to helping students of all backgrounds access a college education, particularly those who may not have dreamed it was possible to pursue a college degree. Citlally, please share your experience as a Latina participating in undergraduate research at UNLV.
Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Hello, everyone. As a first generation college student, it was really hard to know where to begin. Luckily, the UNLV outreach program for prospective students really cemented the fact that UNLV was the best choice for me. The diversity and resources at UNLV makes students from different cultures feel welcome. As a Latina, it makes me feel right at home. Diversity is vital for cultivating creativity since individuals from different backgrounds bring new ideas and experiences to the campus, and thanks to all the resources and services that UNLV offers to students like me, it has been designated as a Hispanic serving institution or HSI. An HSI designation ensures that individuals from underserved backgrounds are able to be fully immersed in the college experience. Whether through programs that seek to unify different cultural communities or programs that promote undergraduate research, UNLV ensures all students have the same life-changing opportunities. UNLV is also one of the founding members of the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities, also known as HSRU. HSRU aims to increase the opportunities available to individuals who are historically underrepresented in higher education. My mentor, Dr. Kang, actually reached out to me with a Pfizer Diversity Fellowship opportunity that was shared with schools with initiatives like UNLV. Through this academic industrial relations diversity fellowship, I was able to receive a $20,000 grant that funded my research in organic chemistry. I even presented my findings to Pfizer scientists. UNLV and its community has given me the support needed to be where I am now. I have met so many different people and obtained opportunities I once thought were impossible. UNLV has given me the tools necessary to succeed in whatever career I choose and it prides me to be known as a Rebel. That’s all from me. Back to you, Alex.
Thanks for sharing, Citlally. How exciting to win a research grant as an undergraduate student. UNLV’s commitment to historically underserved students gives them access to higher education, which can lead to opportunities for higher paying jobs and brighter futures. That same commitment can also advance research that benefits everyone’s future. That was awesome.
Let’s meet Claiborne. He’s a hospitality major originally from Dallas, Texas, and at UNLV, he meets people with different backgrounds and ethnicities every day, and it’s not only the student body. UNLV also has a diverse faculty. Claiborne is gonna share what it means to him to be part of the UNLV community. Claiborne, the mike is all yours.
Appreciate that, Alex. What’s good, y’all? I’m originally from Texas, but I decided to come to the entertainment capital of the world to get a new experience and UNLV has truly shown me what I’m capable of. I used to get in trouble in class for talking too much, but at UNLV, I’m encouraged to participate in class wide discussions and ask questions. I couldn’t have picked a major that suited me better than hospitality. With aspirations to become a casino manager, I made the best choice by not only coming to Las Vegas, but also to one of the highest ranked hospitality programs in the world. A degree in this program could open up doors you couldn’t even imagine. With how tight-knit the university is with Las Vegas Strip properties, you can’t let an opportunity like this go to waste. As one of the most diverse campuses in the nation, UNLV is truly a new experience for me. Not only do the teachers come from different backgrounds, but the student body is also extremely diverse with more than half of the students coming from ethnic backgrounds as well. This makes the experience better for students of color like myself and most of my classmates. From my experience at UNLV, I feel more comfortable now that I can see people like myself represented not only in the student body, but the faculty as well. UNLV’s unique college experience has helped me expand my ways of thinking in ways I couldn’t imagine. It has enabled me to approach problems from different perspectives. I am more than happy that everything is going so well and I’m excited to see what’s in store for the next semester and the next four years, but that’s all for me. Are you feeling lucky, Alex? Back to you.
Thanks for sharing your experience, Claiborne. Studying at a diverse university like UNLV will expand your way of thinking and help you approach problems from different perspectives. Finding common ground with others who have had different experiences can positively impact your view of the world around you. That was great.
Kanani just earned her doctorate, making that her third degree from UNLV. Most students enter college to earn one degree and move into the professional world, but you’ll be left wanting more with the opportunities you’ll have at UNLV and you’ll be prepared to continue your education in graduate school or possibly even further. Kanani, please tell us your story.
Thanks, Alex. I’m thrilled to share my story about becoming a Rebel forever. My journey at UNLV was not only shaped by academics, but by the once in a lifetime experiences I could have only received as a Rebel. I have served as UNLV’s undergraduate student body president and graduate student body president. My senior year was the most significant time of my life and shaped my postgraduate experiences. I knew I wanted to continue my education but didn’t know which graduate program to pursue. Then UNLV hosted two major events that changed the trajectory of my life. First, I introduced the Vice President of the United States to UNLV students as he hosted a rally to build awareness for prevention programs to combat sexual assault on college campuses. Then I organized volunteers and was the student lead when UNLV hosted the 2016 presidential debate. Not many people can say they were in the room where revolutionary and controversial political conversations happened. Those two events asserted my thirst for policy and politics. From there, it was seamless to choose a graduate program that correlated with the passion UNLV affirmed in me by receiving a master’s in public administration and doctorate in public policy. UNLV ensures that experiential learning and academic programs go hand in hand. Academic programs provide capstone experiences, lab space, internships, and pre-professional programs to ensure whatever your passion is ignites. UNLV provides experiences for both undergraduate and graduate students, no matter what stage of life you’re in. The pride I feel walking onto UNLV’s campus is indescribable. UNLV has granted me life-changing experiences that have propelled me into my career in policy and government affairs. I’ve spent a decade studying at UNLV and continue looking for ways to be on campus and become engaged, like advising a sorority and joining the UNLV Alumni Association Board of Directors. I am always grateful to be a Rebel forever. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
Kanani, it’s incredible how your experiences at UNLV led you to your master’s degree and then even further to earn your doctorate. UNLV prepares its students for the future by giving them opportunities and experiences that inspire them to strive for more and accomplish great things.
Let’s meet Kaitlyn, a junior majoring in journalism and media with a double concentration in visual production and audio and podcasting. She’s capitalizing on the incredible resources available to her in beautiful Greenspun Hall and taking full advantage of the hands-on learning opportunities she’s had both on and off campus. Tell us all about it, Kaitlyn.
I appreciate the introduction, Alex. When I started looking through the degree options at UNLV, I asked myself, would I be willing to take every class required of this major? Once I stumbled upon journalism and media studies as an option, my answer was yes. The opportunity to take classes and use production, audio storytelling, and social media excited me. UNLV has more than 150 majors, minors, and certificates, and I’m glad I took the time to find the right degree path for me. As a journalism major, I’m fortunate to have learned from industry professionals that have worked for companies like Marvel and ESPN. I like to joke that I live right here at Greenspun Hall. You can always find me taking advantage of all the resources UNLV has to offer, whether I’m in the editing lab, recording audio in the studio, or renting a camera from the equipment room. Outside the classroom, I’m a student reporter for “University Speaks,” a student worker for UNLV TV, and a member of Rebel Media Group. Being involved in these organizations have provided me with unique experiences like being part of an Emmy award-winning student newscast, and working as a talent escort for the American Country Music Awards. I also intern at “Las Vegas Now,” the lifestyle and entertainment show for Las Vegas’s CBS affiliate. I’ve worked on writing for broadcast, digital and physical marketing, and practicing in front of the camera. None of these opportunities would’ve been possible without the foundation I’ve built here at UNLV. I’m proud of my decision to attend UNLV because of the resources, opportunities, and connections I’ve made on campus and in the Las Vegas community. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
Wow, your resume will be so impressive, Kaitlyn. I’m amazed at all the hands-on learning experiences available at UNLV. It’s fantastic. No matter your major, UNLV provides specialized resources and experiential learning opportunities, so you’re ready to hit the ground running when you graduate. Keep up the great work, Kaitlyn.
I’m excited for you to meet Kian. He’s a medical student at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV. Las Vegas is his hometown and he can tell you there’s much more to do here than see a show on the Las Vegas strip. There’s a whole different world outside the city limits. Take it away, Kian.
Thanks, Alex. Hey everyone. Let me tell you about some of my favorite things about UNLV. Being born and raised in Las Vegas, I’ve learned so much about the city and all that it has to offer. UNLV has been the perfect place for me to have a rich college experience filled with adventure and entertainment. UNLV allows me to balance my heavy workload as a medical student and still enjoy life to the fullest. We’re just two miles away from the Las Vegas strip, a mile away from an international airport, and most importantly for me, just a short distance away from a massive variety of mountains, canyons, and trails. Las Vegas is the perfect setting for a rich outdoor life. Whether mountain biking along hundreds of miles of trails, rock climbing in the slot canyons of Red Rock, running in one of the many races in Las Vegas, paddleboarding along the Colorado River, or soaking in some hot springs, the over 300 days of sunshine annually in Las Vegas make these activities possible year round. If you’ve never experienced some of these outdoor activities, don’t worry. UNLV Outdoor Adventures host more than 20 trips a year where you can learn more about these places and meet people with those same interests. Oh, there’s also the Las Vegas strip. I love grabbing lunch in the culinary haven that is downtown and then spending the evening on the Strip with a comedy show, musical, concert, or whatever else I feel like doing. I would’ve never imagined that I could be achieving my dream of becoming a doctor while still having the life balance I have now. I have the convenience and the breadth of opportunities of Las Vegas to thank for that, and that’s why I love UNLV and Las Vegas so much. Now, back to you, Alex.
You sure are adventurous, Kian. In the beautiful Las Vegas weather with more than 300 days of sunshine each year, getting outside in nature sounds like a great way to take a break from studying. I’d love to go rock climbing in Red Rock Canyon. Please sign me up for one of those amazing outdoor adventures.
I wanna introduce you to Ryder, double majoring in marketing and international business. He’s gonna tell us how he’s been putting his financial aid and scholarships to use. One of the biggest factors in the college decision making process is cost. At UNLV, you can access quality education and be confident that your degree won’t burden you with debt. Ryder, take it away.
Thanks Alex. Welcome future Rebels. I always knew I wanted to go to college, but I was unsure on how to afford it. I wanted to develop myself and my interests, but not break my bank. At UNLV, I’ve been able to do just that and so much more. Here at UNLV, I’ve been able to do anything that I set my mind to, thanks to the amazing scholarships and financial aid that the university offers. From founding my own fraternity, competing in national competitions, and traveling the world, UNLV has given me the resources to make my dreams a reality, my biggest dream being studying abroad. I spent a semester in the beautiful Viterbo, Italy where I was able to learn another language, eat as much pasta as I could, and experience life as a local Italian, all while expanding my perspectives and earning college credit. I couldn’t get enough, so I studied abroad two more times in the summer of my senior year in Verona, Reggio Amelia, and Torino, Italy. Finishing a minor in Italian studies, I was able to explore the entire Italian boot and stay debt free. It sounds too good to be true, I know, but UNLV really does make incredible education like this possible. With an R1 distinction, UNLV has been recognized as a top tier research institution. This high quality education is offered at an accessible cost with both merit and need-based scholarships that are renewable for four years and are even stackable. So if you wanna get the most out of your collegiate experience without breaking the bank, just know that most UNLV students receive some form of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, work study, and loans. If you do choose to become a Rebel, don’t be afraid to dream big because at UNLV, we make it happen. Alex, back to you.
Wow, Ryder. Your study abroad experiences in Italy, fantastico, and it’s great that you’ve been able to take full advantage of the generous financial aid and scholarships at UNLV. The opportunities you’ve had at UNLV certainly set you up for success.
I’d like you to meet Caren. She’s double majoring in marketing and international business with a focus on economics and a double minor in Brookings Public Policy and global entrepreneurship, and believe it or not, with all the studying she does, she still made time to do some amazing things on campus. Caren, tell us your story.
Thanks, Alex. Hi, everybody. For as long as I can remember, education has meant everything to my family and me. UNLV is a thriving urban research institution whose mission is to not only provide excellent education, conduct meaningful research, and provide innovative partnerships, but give direct access to first generation and immigrant students like me. My collegiate memories are rooted in the beautiful people and traditions the campus has to offer. During my time here, I’ve helped start two student organizations, served on UNLV’s Pan Atlantic Council as a member of Sigma Kappa sorority, and became UNLV’s first Filipino undergraduate student body president. From Rebel Royalty at UNLV homecoming to heading to Italy for global entrepreneurship, the irreplaceable opportunities and vibrant community here are why I’m proud to call UNLV my second home. UNLV is an R1 research institution where you learn from professors who are at the forefront of their disciplines. For me, this means cutting edge research with the best faculty who now serve as my greatest mentors. I’ve also been able to pursue my passion for public policy with the Brookings Public Policy minor, which is only available here at UNLV. It’s a unique program in collaboration with national experts and scholars from the Brookings Institution. UNLV is also an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander serving institution. Attending an institution committed to inclusivity has been a game changer for my education and future career. I’ve poured my heart into my degree, planned several campus events, and I even joke that we popularized the LV sign. UNLV has colored my world with beautiful shades of scarlet and gray, providing me with skills in communication, marketing, and policy that I never thought possible. So when people ask me why UNLV, I’ll tell them it’s because at UNLV, Rebels make it happen. Take it away, Alex.
Thanks for sharing, Caren. Your hard work and amazing experiences at UNLV have really set you up for success, both personally and professionally. You are the perfect example of how Rebels make it happen.
Next, we’re gonna speak to Grace, a third year student studying journalism and mass communication at Arizona State. Where better to practice and learn the art of journalism than across three continents? Grace has an extra special story here today and all starts with her mom and stepdad. Grace, you’re up.
Thanks, Alex. My mom and stepdad met on “Semester at Sea” in 1993. Growing up, my entire childhood consisted of hearing stories of my mom’s voyage and how it made her a better person. To me, “Semester at Sea” was almost like a fairytale. I never thought it was something that I would be able to do, that it was my mom’s story, not mine. When I got to college at Arizona State University and decided to travel abroad, I knew that “Semester at Sea” was the only fit for me. Before getting on the ship, I talked to some alumni from past voyages. When I asked them what I should expect, they all gave me different answers. I asked my mom why this was, and she said it’s because each voyage is so unique. Now, I know what she means. “Semester at Sea” is such a unique experience that the only people who will understand it are the people on the ship with you. And that’s why the relationships that we make on the ship are so strong and long lasting. When I head back to my college for my senior year, I’m going to miss these experiences and all my new friends. But I also know that I’ll be taking them all with me. Now that I’ve taken my own voyage, my mom and I have this story and experience to share as well. I love the relationships that I’ve formed so far and I can’t wait to see how they grow and develop. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
No matter what semester you come aboard, there’s a common element to each voyager story. They build lifelong relationships that continue after the voyage is over. With stories like yours, Grace, and your mom’s, it’s no wonder “Semester at Sea” is still sailing nearly 60 years after its first voyage. Unbelievable. Thanks, Grace.
I cannot wait to hear from Vera, one of the many lifelong learners aboard this ship. Lifelong learners are “Semester at Sea” adult learners and travelers. They are retirees, professionals on leave, or simply adventurous travelers who desire to study with bright, enthusiastic undergraduate students from around the world. Vera has an extremely inspirational story. Let’s have a listen.
Thanks so much, Alex and hi, everyone! I’m so excited to share my experience with you as a lifelong learner. The idea that I could combine my love of travel, learning, and adventure was irresistible. Beyond classes with world-class professors from around the world, our ship is alive with optional activities all day long. We gather each morning at sea and then off we go to pursue our different interests throughout the day. Many of us are involved in the extended family program, where we are ship moms or dads to students looking for that extra connection while they’re away from home. Some of us are on the voyage for the entire semester. Others, as spotlight voyagers for shorter segments of the journey. I love that there are so many great ways to be a part of this experience. This isn’t a cruise. It’s a voyage of discovery and an inner and outer journey. Maybe you’re finally giving yourself permission to live your dreams or just step away from the stress of everyday life. Maybe you’re searching for your people and want to join them for the adventure of a lifetime. No matter your why, there’s a place for you here. A friend once said to me, “Always choose adventure” and she was right. This is the best investment I’ve ever made in myself. You don’t come away from a journey like this the same person. Life’s greatest experiences are within your reach if you’ll just go for it. That’s my story, Alex. Sea you later.
Thank you so much for sharing your story, Vera. You have a beautiful perspective on life and travel. Lifelong learners are so great to have on this adventure, not only because of the experiences they have, but the impact they have on student voyagers as well. Thanks again, Vera.
Okay, now let’s speak to Will, a senior finance major. He’s also a student and traveler, passionate about new experiences and the opportunities in front of him. Will, please tell us more about how you are preparing for your global future.
Thanks, Alex. Academics and learning have always been a big part of my life. Coming from an isolated area of rural Kansas, I also love to be outdoors and explore. I combine those passions when I joined “Semester at Sea.” We travel all around the world and our classes come with us. My experiences on the voyage have opened my eyes up to new possibilities. I’ve always been part of a team. I grew up playing sports and I played golf in college. I also enjoy volunteer work and remaining active in many clubs and organizations. On the voyage, I decided to take leading high performance teams to enhance those relationships and learn vital skills for today’s global work environment. In Portugal, our class spoke with a company about their challenges from a team aspect. We also listened to a youth sporting coach discuss leadership. Now, as we’re learning different strategies to manage teams and improve performance, we’re actively applying what we learned to that company’s challenges and preparing a plan to hand back to them. In this way, we’re working with companies around the world and making a real difference. The “Semester at Sea” voyage is all about showing you the unlimited opportunities there are around the world. It truly creates an immersive experience that has given me a new global perspective. This voyage is helping me prepare for my future. I’m realizing just how big the world is and how I can be a part of it. I’ve gained confidence in who I am and am emboldened to take on loftier goals. There are so many possibilities out there that I never knew about. Seeing the world makes them real. Over to you, Alex.
Will, it is awesome to hear about all you saw and learned in Lisbon, Portugal and how it’s helping prepare you for your future. Best of luck as you embark on the journey ahead.