I can’t wait for you all to meet our next student, Jayla. Jayla is a junior majoring in political science and is here to share how Xavier creates a space for her and other students to give back to the community. Jayla, take it away.
Thanks for the introduction Desi. Hey, everybody. Growing up, I always admire my mother and older brother. Their hard work in the medical field also inspired me to want to study medicine. Therefore, when it became time to choose a college I chose the Xavier University of Louisiana. They had all the cultural expectations and educational challenges that I was looking for. Science is a huge focus of Xavier’s academics. Xavier is the number one school in the nation in the production of African American medical school graduates. Professors have pushed me and challenged me enormously while I’ve embarked on my college journey. Academically, I have been able to push myself, accomplish goals and participate in the wonderful programs. For the summer of 2022, I participated in the Meharry Medical College BS/MD program. I was able to take classes in order to further my education and prepare myself for the MCAT. I also made numerous friends and got the inside look on life as a college student. Though academics have been my main focus I have also had amazing social life. Campus is full of activities, organizations and clubs to join but the most participated activity is community service. Service is a way for students to help give back to the community in numerous ways, gardening, cleaning, educating children, and so much more. These service opportunities help build humility in the students and push them to want to continue to change the world for the better. At the beginning of my college journey I would’ve not imagined the impact Xavier will have on my life. Not only did I learn the materials I needed in order to further my education, but I endured an experience that was wholesome and beneficial to my future career. That’s everything about me. Back to you, Desi.
What an inspiring story Jayla. You are all definitely changing the world for the better. Thank you for sharing.
Xavier strives to build a strong sense of community that supports excellence across the academics and the campus. It’s time to meet Kayla. She’s a senior working toward her degree in public health and is here to share a little bit about campus life. Tell us more Kayla.
Thanks Desi. As a student that didn’t have Xavier is my first choice, let me tell you, it’s been the best decision I’ve made. I always thought I was gonna major in biology and be a big college athlete but everything changed on decision day, when I thought to myself, other than knowledge what did I want out of my college experience and well, the other schools never stood a chance. The community on campus is truly one of a kind. We are a melting pot of different cultures, ethnicities, religions and more all in one space for one goal to create a more just and humane society. Xavier creates opportunities for students to explore and get involved to make real changes and the University Center is the center for campus life at Xavier. You’ll find a mix of cultural, educational, social and recreational programs to balance coursework and free time. The UC provides services and offices for organizations, mail service, dining service, a game room and a large study area that converts to a showcase lounge. I’m currently a part of student government, professional organizations, social clubs, a cultural association, and Greek life. I may be busy, but it’s worth it. When you get to make a difference and positively impact future students and their college experiences. Upon graduation, I plan to take some time to reset and relax. Then I plan to become an EMT. I may get my master’s in public health and then on to the big MD. My road to medical school will not be traditional but it’ll be worth it. Remember, it’s your story, make it count. Thanks, Desi. That’s all for me, back to you.
Wow. Kayla. There sure is a lot going on around campus. With so many academic clubs, organizations, clubs, and activities, you’re definitely staying busy. Thank you for sharing.
Yaa’ann is a senior mass communications major who believes in Xavier’s commitment to creating social change through thoughtful introspection, courageous conversation, and intentional action. Yaa’ann, we can’t wait to hear your story.
Thanks Desi. Hi, everyone. When I was a senior in high school, I wanted two things in a university, an HBCU, and a family atmosphere. Here at Xavier University of Louisiana I have found both of those and more. I have found a university that cares for me, pushes me to be my best self and has truly prepared me for the real world. Xavier cultivates a culture of excellence and promises students that we will leave ready for the world. My professors and my classmates are always encouraging me to do my best and are equally supportive of all of my accomplishments. Not only has my work at Xavier made me a better person, it has also had an impact on those around me. I have been able to take my skills in mass communication and apply them to multiple markets and have used them to make an impact where I can. By participating in Xavier’s Pride gala and other events on campus, I have had a direct role in the social justice aspects that Xavier takes pride in. The Office of Inclusion and Social Justice at Xavier University of Louisiana is committed to catalyzing social change through advocacy, ethical leadership, community engagement and public discourse both within and beyond the walls of our institution. As I get ready to graduate from Xavier University of Louisiana, I am so grateful to have been able to spend four years around professors, friends and alumni who have truly become a family and have inspired me to have an impact on the world around me. Back to you, Desi.
It’s so powerful to hear that students aren’t just leaving with a great education, but are leaving inspired to change the world. Yaa’ann, thank you for sharing.
As part of the overall development of its students, Xavier provides a balanced athletic and recreational sports program. Let’s meet Adrian, a senior chemistry pre-med major and athlete here to give us insight into the athletics program and his experience on the track team. Tell us all about it Adrian.
Thanks, Desi. Both of my parents are HBCU graduates so at an early age I understood I could prosper and succeed wherever I decided to go to college especially on the grounds of an HBCU campus. When I first visited Xavier I quickly saw them electrifying culture including the family like atmosphere, the academic resources, the food and athletics. I was able to attend a basketball game where I met the head coach of track and field. Like any other student, I need an escape from the academic world and running cross country and track granted me that wish. Xavier’s a part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Champions of Character Program. This program’s mission is to change the culture of sport by providing training to instill the values that build characters of students, coaches and parents know, do and value the right thing on and off the field. I believe in what they’re trying to do because a student that only has the athletic capabilities going for ’em innately doesn’t have much going for him. Xavier believes each individual should be multi-faceted which is why they pushed their athletes to not only be the best in their sport but also in the classroom as well. For student athletes, Xavier offers over a dozen intercollegiate men’s and women’s varsity sports, not to mention dozens of campus recreational sports programs and intermural or club sports, fitness and informal recreation. The balanced athletic and recreational sports program is an important educational experience. It provides excellent training for students in all departments of the university. Xavier has helped me grow into a stronger individual and leader, and as I head towards the end of my journey I plan to take what I’ve learned at Xavier and impact the world on a larger scale. Now that’s my story, back to you, Desi.
Thank you Adrian for sharing your story and showing off your skills. We can’t wait to see what you can accomplish in the next few years. Take care.
Here to give us a look into the world of academics is Lauryn. She’s a sophomore studying psychology and is here to share how faculty, real world experience and global research opportunities are helping prepare her for a meaningful career and a purposeful life. The floor is yours, Lauryn.
Thanks, Desi. I’ve always considered myself to be a pretty artistic person. I love to dance, write, sing, and draw but by the time I was in eighth grade I knew I was gonna be a STEM major in college. The decision to leave my hometown was a scary one but branching out of my comfort zone was a risk worth taking. I chose XULA because they offer great science and pre-med programs and attending an HBCU meant I could flourish somewhere I felt like I belonged. The transition from distance learning in high school to all in-person classes at a university was definitely intimidating. There are times where I struggle but I have so many resources here at Xavier. My professors are always accessible and they welcome me with open arms with any question I may have. There’s also resources like tutoring sessions and resource centers for numerous subjects like english, math, and chemistry. The main resource I take advantage of is my classmates. I’ve met my closest friends here and I started making more connections with those in my major by forming study groups and attending tutoring sessions. We even joke about bringing blankets and snacks to the library when exam time comes around. While this school truly prioritizes academic excellence, it also ensures all students are able to obtain what is necessary for them to prosper in and outside of the classroom. Xavier provides students with internship opportunities, the ability to study abroad and engage in community service throughout the city of New Orleans. Xavier will not only support you but provide you with the resources you need to prosper, whether that be in the form of internships, tutoring, volunteerism, or workshops. I have so much fun working with my peers, bonding with my professors, and most of all being Xavierite. Take it away Desi.
Thanks for sharing, Lauryn. It’s great that you can utilize faculty and friends to grow both in and out of the classroom and snacks in the library sounds like a great way to study. Thanks again.
Let’s head over to meet Yalari. She’s an aspiring doctor that came to Xavier to get the full HBCU experience. And with the city of New Orleans just minutes away, she’s going to tell us about all the ways students take advantage of this historical town. Take it away, Yalari.
Thanks Desi. Hey, everyone. When it came down to choosing a university I knew I wanted to find adventure. I wanted to make sure that the university I chose had the academic rigor to push me towards the future my family and I always imagined for me. I am a first generation student, so coming to college was a bit terrifying at first, but as soon as I got on campus, met my roommates and saw the city, all of my jitters went away. Xavier offers a first generation community where students come together and inspire each other. Not only does the university have amazing academics, it’s also in the city of New Orleans and offers so many chances for adventures. Beignet at Cafe Du Monde, live music at in Poboy, streetcar rides and ferry cruises are just a few things New Orleans is famous for. Who wouldn’t wanna go to school here. Just a few minutes away from campus is the French Quarter, a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Full of live music, food and drink, shopping and history, there’s always something to see or do here no matter the day. Although I am only a freshman here at Xavier, I feel the university has helped me in more ways than I could have imagined. I have been able to gain knowledge while having room to explore and meet new people. I am looking forward to spending the next three years here to furthering my academic career. That’s all for me. Back to you, Desi.
Yalari, thank you for the inside look at New Orleans and all of the incredible things happening in the French Quarter. I think I’ll have to grab a beignet after that.
Let’s hear from Kirsten, a second year doctor of pharmacy candidate and a former Miss Xavier. She’s here to tell us about the history and legacy of Xavier University of Louisiana and why being America’s only historically black and Catholic University is just the first of the distinctions that have set them apart for more than eight decades. Take it away, Kirsten.
Thanks for that intro, Desi. I always knew that I wanted to be a doctor. In addition to Xavier being number one in producing black physicians, we’re also number three in producing black pharmacists in the country. I remember thinking to myself, wow, what if I went here? Being a Xavierite, has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding roles I have ever had. I learned very quickly that there was an expectation that we do not only do well but that we soared. Excellence is non-negotiable. At Xavier, we have a saying, Deo Adjuvenate Non Timendum. It means, with God there’s nothing we should fear and Xavierites live by the saying. We’re the only Catholic HBCU in the country so we understand wholeheartedly that we are walking in ordered steps and that everything we accomplish is to help bring us closer to the people that God needs us to be. My first step towards fulfilling the gold standard was ensuring that I had an internship. I am proud to say that I have had an internship every year since the summer of 2019. Xavier has resources that can help catapult anyone’s career and your career begins the first day you step on campus. The Office of Career Services played an instrumental role in my confidence and ability to truly go after what I want. Xavier University of Louisiana will forever hold a place in my heart. When people choose to come to Xavier, they’re doing much more than just going to college. You are joining a village that will uplift, nurture and truly care for you, and when you leave here you’re prepared to contribute to the promotion of a more just and humane society. I hope I was able to give you all a little bit more information about my beloved HBCU. That’s all for me. Back to you, Desi.
Thanks. Kirsten. Did you know that Xavier is a nationally recognized leader in the STEM and health sciences fields, producing more African American students who graduate from medical school each year than any other university in the United States? Kirsten, you are going to make a great doctor someday.
Let’s meet Charlotte, a sophomore in the honors program, double majoring in management and communication studies who’s always had a strong tie to Susquehanna. Charlotte, we can’t wait to hear how you found your team right here at Susquehanna. Take it away.
Thanks, Alex. During my extensive college search, I knew I wanted a school I would feel proud to attend and I ended up here, at a place I knew well. Choosing to come to Susquehanna, where my mom once graduated from, was truly the best decision I have ever made. I played sports growing up and had to decide if I wanted to continue in college. During my first year here, I tried intramural softball, and when I joined Kappa Delta sorority, I found my team within Greek life. I never expected to form a genuine connection with the sisters of my sorority and others. It’s a great community where we get to host lots of events like Halloween on the Ave and Greek Week- but Greek life is just a sliver of what Susquehanna has to offer. I love cheering on our stellar River Hawk teams and there are tons of clubs and organizations you can join based on our interest: social justice, hobbies, service, and academics. The student jobs are great too. I’m an ambassador and I’m an intern in the Dean’s office in the business school. I’m also in the honors program, which helps me expand my thoughts and skills across disciplines and pushes me outside my comfort zone. There are so many beloved traditions at Susquehanna. The ones I especially love are around the holidays. Our president, faculty, and staff serve students a traditional Thanksgiving dinner and you don’t wanna miss the candlelight service. Our campus is beautiful, as is this town- and the Isle of Que, along the picturesque Susquehanna River, is just a short walk away. Susquehanna feels like home and the community here is like no other. It doesn’t matter what team, major, or club you are a part of. We are all River Hawks. Being only a sophomore, I cannot wait for what the future holds. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
Some people are just born a River Hawk. You’re making your own connections to Susquehanna even as your mom’s connections continue to blossom here- I heard she was just back on campus speaking to students. At S.U. everyone can find their people and their passions thanks to Susquehanna’s robust campus life, which is awesome. Thanks again.
I can’t tell you how much I’m looking forward to this next student. Meet Kallan, a senior environmental studies major with a minor in sustainability management. When she graduates, she’ll be running away with school records and the personal satisfaction that comes with being the best version of yourself, thanks to her experiences at Susquehanna. Let’s try to catch up with Caitlin right now.
Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. Growing up, I loved running. From field day events to lacrosse tournaments, I enjoyed the feeling of freedom that came with running outside, but I wasn’t sure about competing in college until I stepped foot into Susquehanna’s track and immediately felt the urge to continue my running career. As a River Hawk student athlete, my coaches and teammates are always pushing me to get better and my professors are supportive and flexible. I’ve grown significantly as both a person and a runner. I even own a few school records. This fall, I claimed the 6K title by becoming just a second woman in program history to break 22 minutes. I love the atmosphere here. My D3 student athlete experience is second to none. It has allowed me to compete at a high level while both excelling in the classroom and giving back to the surrounding community. I’ve made strong connections through our service leaders program. This four-year internship has allowed me to fulfill service hours each semester by working with a community partner in nearby children’s museum. Making a meaningful impact within the community has inspired me to stretch my service experience beyond Susquehanna AND the local river valley. Last summer, I studied abroad in the Galapagos Islands, hundreds of miles off the coast of Ecuador. I participated in conservation work by feeding giant tortoises at the Galapagos National Park. It was absolutely remarkable to have served and volunteered during my study abroad experience. When I first started college, I never would’ve imagined how much I would learn, experience, and accomplish during my time here. Through the amazing tight-knit community, I met so many fabulous people and the memories I have made will last a lifetime. I will forever be grateful for Susquehanna. For now, I’m off to chase down an all-American finish. Back to you, Alex!
Kallan, you’re the perfect example of the student athlete experience where individuals and teams rack up wins, records, and championships. They find time to give back through service, nearby and far, and leave here empowered to lead a successful and meaningful life. Good luck to you, Kallan. We are all rooting for you.
Let’s head into the studio and meet Luke, a junior sports media major with a minor in photography. Luke is one of Susquehanna’s digital storytellers, combining classroom knowledge with high-end equipment to broadcast the River Hawks on the field, on the screen, and on the airways. Let’s queue up Luke, take it away.
Thanks for the introduction, Alex, and, to all of you, welcome to Susquehanna University. My whole life I’ve always loved sports. Whether it was watching them on TV or being a three-sport athlete in high school, I couldn’t get enough. So with the chance to combine my passion for sports with my love for photography and videography, Susquehanna was the perfect place for me. I’ve had so many opportunities to get hands-on experience in everything I’m interested in, whether it’s seeing my pictures published in our on-campus newspaper or doing instant replay at a football game. Faculty give students every opportunity to use industry-standard equipment in real world situations as soon as our first year. I’ve also had the chance to help out with “The River Hawk Spotlight,” which is our student-produced interview-style sports show that features our student athletes and coaches. Students can do any job from camera work to directing the whole show. One of my favorite things that our communications department offers is our on-campus radio station, 88.9 W.Q.S.U. I broadcast on our sports shows and I build my portfolio by getting on-air experience on the largest student-run radio station in Pennsylvania. I also broadcast my own live show to listeners within our 70 mile radius. Even if students don’t wanna be live on air, they can join one of our other departments such as promotions, news, or music. There’s a lot that goes into running a radio station and at W.Q.S.U., you can do it all. My dream would be to incorporate photography into my career somehow, whether that be as a professional photographer full-time or working in the sports media industry. I’m very grateful for all the experience I’ve gained in so many different parts of the media industry while here at Susquehanna. That’s all for me. Alex, take it back.
Thank you, Luke! You’re getting real-world experience in a fast-paced, action-packed, and deadline-oriented industry. There are so many opportunities for students to strengthen their communication skills and tell Susquehanna’s story. From covering celebrities at guest lectures, to producing multimedia commercials for local businesses, and managing social media accounts, it’s all incredible experiences. Thanks for sharing your story.