All right, let’s meet Landon, a graduate student focusing on human resources leadership. He’s gonna tell us all about how easy it is for students to connect across campus and take advantage of a variety of resources. Landon, please take it away.
Hey Alex. Thanks for the introduction. I recently completed my BBA in human resource management and minor in communications. Now I’m working on my MBA with an emphasis in leadership. I’ve had so many amazing opportunities such as having my own talk show called “Connecting with Cardinals.” being a Lamar University Ambassador, as well as being heavily involved within the College of Business and throughout campus. However, I would not be the person I am today without the amazing resources Lamar University provides. Lamar University has phenomenal student resources for students who need extra support, such as student tutoring and retention services better known as STARS around here, the Student Health Center and the Center for Career and Professional Development. There is always someone here to help on campus. They’re equipped to help every student in their unique goals, experiences, and situations. I’ve never had to wait in a wait list which is very beneficial whenever I want to handle something quickly. Through STARS, I was introduced to a success coach and fellow student who provided the tools to accomplish my goals and I was encouraged to connect with other resources across campus. Counseling at the Student Health Center can help provide you with the tools to have a healthy mindset and learn how to adjust between the stress and anxiety of being a full-time student. The Center for Career and Professional Development connects students with a career consultant specific to their major or college within the university. That really helped me build my resume and profile on LinkedIn. No matter your unique circumstances or experiences, the student resources are here to help you in your academic career. Lamar University cares about you as a student professionally and personally. Well, that’s all from me. Thank you for listening and back to you, Alex.
Thank you, Landon. I loved hearing your story about how the resources on campus helped you along the way. How impressive is it that you received your undergrad here and are now working on your graduate? Lamar must really have made a positive impact on you, which is fantastic, thanks again, Landon.
Okay, everyone. We’re going to meet Antonio, who’s gonna tell us how Lamar University has worked in recent years to become more diverse and a better support and inclusive atmosphere. Antonio, you are on.
Thank you for that awesome introduction Alex, and hi everybody. I’m originally from Guanajuato, Mexico and came to this country in search of a top tier education around 10 years ago. Lamar University checked out the box for me with affordability, rigorous academics and an inclusive and diverse student body. As the first generation high school graduate in my family, I was afraid the high cost of college would stop me from pursuing a higher education, but Lamar’s amongst the top 10 most affordable colleges in Texas and still awards over 2000 scholarships, provides more than $10 million in assistance to students. One of these scholarships is this Smith Hilton Scholarship, which I was honored to receive. This scholarship targets low income, high potential incoming freshmen. It fully covers tuition, room and board, and books for all four years. After having seen my parents go through the immigration process, I always knew to pursue a career in law. Lamar University has an award-winning moot court team, a student-run competitive speech team, rigorous classes aimed at preparing students for law school and a diverse group of advisors and professors that deeply care about your success. Before I even came to campus, Lamar University showed me its mission of serving and empowering minorities by giving me the opportunity to attend the Leadership Summit along with other Hispanic and black students. The summit aimed to engage students on college and career readiness, identity and brotherhood. I honestly wouldn’t want to be anywhere else other than surrounded by driven, diverse and amicable cardinals who want to see each other succeed. I am thrilled to see what these four years have in store for me here at Lamar University. I rest my case. Back to you, Alex.
Antonio, it’s incredible hearing the passion you bring to Lamar University and we have no doubt you’ll make a killer attorney and thanks for telling us how Lamar University is working to become more inclusive of all students. Take care, Antonio.
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.